Wireless bridge to local devices on personal equipment system

ABSTRACT

Some embodiments are provided for providing a wireless bridge to local devices on personal equipment systems. Personal equipment systems can include wireless communication systems that allow external systems, users, or both to communicate with and access data from local devices on the personal equipment systems. Personal equipment systems are provided having one or more local devices coupled thereto and in wired communication with one another. Personal equipment systems can include a wireless system and local devices attached to a headgear system, the local devices being in wired communication with one another and in wireless communication with external systems. The wireless communication system is configured to establish a wireless connection with external systems for communicating with and accessing local devices that are in wired communication with each other.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/941,746, filed Jul. 15, 2013, entitled “Wireless Maintenance of Intrapersonal Communication Systems” (Atty. Docket N2IS.008C2), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/679,935, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,488,969, filed Nov. 16, 2012, entitled “Intrapersonal Data Communication System” (Atty. Docket N2IS.008C1), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/674,895, filed Nov. 12, 2012, entitled “Intrapersonal Data Communication System” (Atty. Docket N2IS.008A), which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/596,889, filed Feb. 9, 2012, entitled “Intrapersonal Data Communication Systems and Methods” (Atty. Docket N2IS.008PR), U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/677,589, filed Jul. 31, 2012, entitled “Intrapersonal Data Communication Systems and Methods” (Atty. Docket N2IS.008PR2), U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/718,032, filed Oct. 24, 2012, entitled “Intrapersonal Data Communication Systems and Methods” (Atty. Docket N2IS.008PR3), U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/621,390, filed Apr. 6, 2012, entitled “Methods and Systems for Performing Wireless Maintenance and Diagnostic Procedures on Personal Equipment” (Atty. Docket N2IS.009PR), and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/677,448, filed Jul. 30, 2012, entitled “Systems and Methods for Connecting Equipment to Headgear” (Atty. Docket N2IS.019PR). The entirety of each of the applications referenced in this paragraph is incorporated by reference herein to form a part of this specification.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

This disclosure relates generally to communication systems and to intrapersonal data communication systems and methods.

2. Description of Related Art

An intrapersonal data communication system can include a data connection that covers only a few feet or meters of personal space. Such a system can provide interconnection between two or more local devices. Local devices can include, for example, devices that are positioned near a person's body; attached to clothing, headgear, or other personal accessories; or held in a hand. A local device is local from the perspective of a user who is attempting to access services using the local device. Computers, telephones, cameras, sensor-equipped goggles (e.g., sensors can include imagers, MEMS, DMC, GPS, etc.), sighting systems, smartphones, battery packs, data processing systems, and other electrical devices can be local devices.

A personal equipment system can include an intrapersonal communication system and one or more local devices. The personal equipment system can include hardware, software, and/or firmware configured to manage data flow between local devices, store data on a local device, process data, present information to a user by way of a local device, accept input from a user, and the like. Such a system can be modular, being capable of adding or removing elements while maintaining functionality. The modular elements of the personal equipment system can be configured to perform any individual task, any portion of a task, or multiple tasks.

SUMMARY

Example embodiments described herein have innovative features, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.

Some embodiments provide for a headgear system having an interference-resistant optical digital signal link configured to transmit optical digital signals between two or more local devices. The headgear system can include an exterior shell and a guide path adjacent to the exterior shell, the guide path being configured to direct the optical digital signal link between a first optical connector having a non-contact portion and a second optical connector having a non-contact portion. The headgear system can include a first signal converter having a first local device electrical data interface and a first optical data interface, wherein the first local device electrical data interface is configured to electrically connect to a first electrical data connector of a first local device, and wherein the first signal converter is configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals. The first optical connector of the headgear system can have a non-contact portion configured to couple optical digital signals between the first optical data interface of the first signal converter and a first end of the interference-resistant optical digital signal link across a first gap. The headgear system can include a second signal converter having a second local device electrical data interface and a second optical data interface, wherein the second local device electrical data interface is configured to electrically connect to a second electrical data connector of a second local device, and wherein the second signal converter is configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals. The second optical connector can have a non-contact portion configured to couple optical digital signals between the second optical data interface of the second signal converter and a second end of the interference-resistant optical digital signal link across a second gap.

In some implementations, the first signal converter further comprises an optical transceiver configured to send and receive the optical digital signals. In a further implementation, the headgear system can include a controller configured to direct electrical power to the optical transceiver. In a further implementation, the controller can be configured to direct less than or equal to about 500 mW of electrical power to the optical transceiver during transmission of the optical digital signals. In some implementations, the optical transceiver is configured to operate at a transmission rate that is less than or equal to about 1.0 Gbps. In some implementations, the controller is configured to direct less than or equal to about 50 mW of electrical power to the optical transceiver during transmission of information between the first and second local devices and the transmission of information occurs at a data rate that is less than or equal to about 2 Gbps.

In some implementations, the interference-resistant optical digital signal link includes a radiation shield comprising an elongate tube having a metallic material layer, one or more optical fibers disposed within the elongate tube with axes substantially parallel to an elongate axis of the shielding member, and one or more insulated wires disposed within the elongate tube with axes substantially parallel to the elongate axis of the shielding member configured to transmit an electrical signal. In some implementations, the first local device is a visualization system. In some implementations, the second local device is a data processing system. In some implementations, the guide path comprises a path between an interior surface of the exterior shell and an inner padding of the headgear system. In some implementations, the headgear system can include a mount interface configured to substantially secure the first local device to the headgear system.

Some embodiments provide for a method of providing a signal link between two or more local devices using an interference-resistant optical digital signal link coupled to a headgear system. The method can include directing an interference-resistant optical digital signal link along a guide path between a first optical connector having a non-contact portion and a second optical connector having a non-contact portion. The method can include using a first signal converter, converting a first electrical digital signal to an optical digital signal, wherein the first signal converter comprises a first local device electrical data interface and a first optical data interface, wherein the first local device electrical data interface is configured to electrically connect to a first electrical data connector of a first local device, and wherein the first optical data interface comprises the first optical connector having a non-contact portion. The method can include using the first optical connector having a non-contact portion, coupling the optical digital signal from the first optical data interface of the first signal converter to a first end of the interference-resistant optical digital signal link across a first gap. The method can include using a second signal converter, converting the output digital signal to a second electrical digital signal, wherein the second signal converter comprises a second local device electrical data interface and a second optical data interface, wherein the second local device electrical data interface is configured to electrically connect to a second electrical data connector of a second local device, and wherein the second optical data interface comprises the second optical connector having a non-contact portion. The method can include using the second optical connector having a non-contact portion, coupling the optical digital signal from the second optical data interface of the second signal converter and a second end of the interference-resistant optical digital signal link across a second gap.

In some implementations, the first and second signal converters consume less than or equal to about 500 mW of power during transmission of information between the first and second local devices. In a further implementation, the transmission of information occurs at a data rate that is less than or equal to about 10 Gbps. In some implementations, the first and second signal converters consume less than or equal to about 50 mW of power during transmission of information between the first and second local devices and the transmission of information occurs at a data rate that is less than or equal to about 2 Gbps.

In some implementations, the interference-resistant optical digital signal link includes a radiation shield comprising an elongate tube having a metallic material layer, one or more optical fibers disposed within the elongate tube with axes substantially parallel to an elongate axis of the shielding member, and one or more insulated wires disposed within the elongate tube with axes substantially parallel to the elongate axis of the shielding member configured to transmit an electrical signal. In some implementations, coupling the optical digital signal from the first optical data interface of the first signal converter to the first end of the interference-resistant optical digital signal link includes collimating the optical digital signal using a collimator in the first optical connector having a non-contact portion, transmitting the collimated optical digital signal across the first gap between the collimator and the interference-resistant optical digital signal link, and focusing the collimated optical digital signal to a region substantially within a fiber optic disposed within the interference-resistant optical digital signal link thereby coupling the optical digital signal to the interference-resistant optical digital signal link. In some implementations, the first local device is a visualization system. In some implementations, the second local device is a data processing system. In some implementations, the first digital electrical signal comprises video data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments are depicted in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes, and should in no way be interpreted as limiting the scope of claimed embodiments. In addition, various features of different disclosed embodiments can be combined to form additional embodiments, which are part of this disclosure. Any feature or structure can be removed or omitted. Throughout the drawings, reference numbers can be reused to indicate correspondence between reference elements.

FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram representation of a headgear system according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 1B, 1C, and 1D are illustrations of some embodiments of a headgear system with an optical digital signal link between a visualization system and a data processing system.

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of an example visualization system having an optical digital signal adapter interface.

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal adapter that mates with an example visualization system having an optical digital signal adapter interface.

FIG. 2C illustrates a perspective view of an example visualization system having an optical digital signal bridge interface comprising electrical and non-contact optical connectors.

FIG. 2D illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal bridge that mates with an example visualization system having an optical digital signal bridge interface.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of an example data processing system having an optical digital signal adapter interface.

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal adapter that mates with an example data processing system having an optical digital signal adapter interface.

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of an example data processing system having an optical digital signal bridge interface comprising electrical and non-contact optical connectors.

FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal bridge that mates with an example data processing system having an optical digital signal bridge interface.

FIG. 4A illustrates a block diagram representing a local device electrical connector, an optical digital signal adapter, and an optical digital signal link according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4B illustrates a block diagram representing a local device having a signal converter within the local device, and an optical digital signal link according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4C illustrates a block diagram representing a local device having a signal converter within the local device, and a duplex/bi-directional optical digital signal link according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram representing an optical digital signal bridge having a non-contact optical connector according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6A illustrates a block diagram representing an example intrapersonal data communication system from a visualization system to a data processing system.

FIG. 6B illustrates a block diagram representing an example duplex/bi-directional intrapersonal data communication system between a visualization system and a data processing system.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart of an example method of transmitting information from a visualization system to a data processing system.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an example of mounting hardware and an optical digital signal link routing within the mounting hardware.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an example intrapersonal data communication system mounted on a helmet with a visualization system and a data processing system.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of an example method of preparing a headgear system for being fitted with an intrapersonal data communication system.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example intrapersonal data communication system incorporating a plurality of visualization systems, with at least one visualization system external to the headgear system.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of an example embodiment of a helmet mount incorporating electrical and optical signal connectors.

FIG. 13 illustrates the example helmet mount from the illustration in FIG. 12 to show the electrical and optical signal connectors.

FIG. 14 illustrates the electrical and optical signal connectors from the example helmet mount illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 illustrates a block diagram representation of a personal equipment system according to some embodiments.

FIG. 16 illustrates a block diagram representation of a wireless communication system associated with a personal equipment system according to some embodiments.

FIG. 17 illustrates a flow chart of a method of establishing a wireless bridge between a personal equipment system and an external system.

FIG. 18 illustrates a flow chart of a method for performing maintenance and diagnostics on a system having a wireless communication system.

FIG. 19 illustrates a flow chart of a method for communicating command and control data to a system having a wireless communication system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed herein, inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses, and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. For example, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method or process can be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Various operations can be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a manner that can be helpful in understanding certain embodiments; however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are order dependent. Additionally, the structures described herein can be embodied as integrated components or as separate components. For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments can be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as can also be taught or suggested herein.

It is contemplated that the particular features, structures, or characteristics of any embodiments discussed herein can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more separate embodiments not expressly illustrated or described. In many cases, structures that are described or illustrated as unitary or contiguous can be separated while still performing the function(s) of the unitary structure. In many instances, structures that are described or illustrated as separate can be joined or combined while still performing the function(s) of the separated structures.

Local devices and intrapersonal electrical systems can be configured to communicate with one another using an intrapersonal data communication system. Such communication can permit, for example, processing and display of real-time video feeds supplemented by relevant and appropriate information. The amount of information to be processed and displayed can be achieved by intrapersonal data communication systems that operate at a data rate suitable for transferring digital video. To be mobile and suited for practical use when away from convenient recharging stations, an intrapersonal data communication system that consumes a relatively low amount of power can be advantageous. Considering mobility, an intrapersonal data communication system advantageously can be relatively lightweight and of a small form factor, in addition to consuming a relatively low amount of power. In addition, traditional wired communications can be susceptible to electromagnetic interference in certain environments, rendering high-bandwidth communication difficult, unreliable, and/or impracticable. Wireless communications can also be susceptible to interference from electromagnetic sources and to surreptitious interception. Accordingly, some embodiments provided herein disclose an intrapersonal data communication system that is configured to operate at a data rate sufficient for digital video transmission, to use relatively low power, to be lightweight, to have a small form factor, to be resistant to electromagnetic interference (“EMI”), to be secure, to be resistant to damage, and/or to provide robust data connections in environments traditionally adverse to wired communication (e.g., outdoors, dusty environments, muddy environments, environments with excessive moisture, etc.).

Some embodiments disclosed herein provide a relatively high-bandwidth, low-power, light-weight intrapersonal data communication system that can incorporate data streams from lower bandwidth sources. For example, a lower bandwidth source can include sensors that are within or mounted on a headgear system, coupled to an external system such as a weapon or firearm, mounted or attached to clothing or a backpack, or other external but localized system. The lower bandwidth data streams can be delivered to the relatively high-bandwidth intrapersonal data communication system described herein by electrical wire, fiber optic connection, RF link, EMI-resistant wireless communication or other suitable intrapersonal link. In some implementations, the lower bandwidth data streams are delivered to the relatively high-bandwidth intrapersonal data communication system in such a way as to reduce, minimize, or eliminate cables that may be susceptible to snagging, catching, or otherwise incurring damage during use or operation.

A personal equipment system can include intrapersonal electrical systems and one or more local devices. Cables and connectors associated with personal equipment systems for the purposes of maintenance, diagnostics, or software or firmware upgrades contribute to system procurement and ownership cost. Furthermore, the amount of time and labor required to service these systems increases with the number of systems due to the required step of connecting and disconnecting the necessary cables into the appropriate connectors. Connectors add weight to the system, are a source of hermeticity problems and leaks in sealed systems, and are a point of possible failure due to corrosion, mechanical deformation, or faulty electrical contacts. In some embodiments, a wireless communication system provides a low-power, light-weight, low-cost system that enables personal equipment systems to receive maintenance, diagnostics, and software or firmware upgrades without a corresponding physical connector on the system.

Personal equipment systems can benefit from the ability to wirelessly communicate with external systems. Examples of external systems can include phones, radios, computers, display systems, data processing systems, and/or other intrapersonal electrical systems. Personal equipment systems can receive information from and transmit information to external systems such as, for example, alerts, messages, maps, system status, command and control data, locations, or the like, without needing to be physically connected to the external system. External systems can also communicate wirelessly with personal equipment systems for the purposes of maintenance, retrieval of stored data, upgrading software or firmware, etc. thereby facilitating diagnosis and maintenance. In some embodiments, this wireless communication within personal equipment systems may be configured to be commanded off and on by the user to avoid detection, preserve system security in specific operational environments, preserve power, and the like.

Overview of Headgear Systems Having an Intrapersonal Data Communication System

Some embodiments provide for a headgear system having an intrapersonal data communication system. The intrapersonal data communication system can be configured to transmit and/or propagate signals between local devices of the headgear system, between components of the intrapersonal data communication system, between local devices and external systems, and/or between components of the headgear system and external systems. The intrapersonal data communication system can include an optical signal cable that is configured to provide a communication link between devices, systems, and components wherein the optical signal cable transmits optical digital signals and/or electrical voltages. The intrapersonal data communication system can include components configured to couple signals across an interface between segments of the optical signal cable, an interface between the optical signal cable and a local device, and/or an interface between the optical signal cable and an external system. For example, the intrapersonal data communication system can include optical digital signal bridges and/or optical digital signal adapters configured to send and receive optical digital signals, electrical digital signals, and/or electrical voltages.

The headgear system can include one or more local devices coupled to the headgear system through one or more mount interfaces. For example, the headgear system can include a visualization system that can be configured to acquire image data and/or display information to a user. The visualization system can include, for example, a thermal camera and display, a night-vision goggle, an infrared imager and display, or the like. The visualization system can be coupled to the headgear system through a mount interface that is configured to move and to position the visualization system in a desired, defined, or suitable location relative to the user. The headgear system can include a data processing system configured to receive information from another local device, process the received information using one or more hardware processors and memory, and store the information and/or send the processed information back to the local device, to a different local device, or to an external system. Similarly, the data processing system can be coupled to the headgear system through a mount interface.

The headgear system can include an intrapersonal data communication system. The intrapersonal data communication system can be configured to provide communication between local devices and/or between a local device and an external system using an optical digital signal link. The optical digital signal link can include one or more elements configured to propagate optical digital signals and one or more elements configured to conduct electrical voltages. For example, the optical digital signal link can include optical fibers configured to propagate optical digital signals and electrical wire to conduct electrical voltages. The optical digital signal link can be configured to propagate signals between, for example, local devices, a local device and an external system, the visualization system and the data processing system, the visualization system and a component external to the headgear system, or the data processing system and a component external to the headgear system.

In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link includes a shielding member comprising an elongate tube having a metallic material layer and an insulation layer. The optical digital signal link can include one or more optical fibers disposed within the elongate tube. The fibers can have elongate axes substantially parallel to the axis of the shielding member. The optical digital signal link can also include one or more insulated wires disposed within the elongate tube with axes substantially parallel to the axis of the shielding member configured to transmit an electrical signal. The optical digital signal link can have a total length that is less than or equal to about 1 m, less than or equal to about 50 cm, or less than or equal to about 30 cm.

In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link comprises a plurality of segments or portions coupled to one another through optical digital signal bridges. The optical digital signal bridges can be configured to provide a communication bridge between segments of the optical digital signal link by providing electrical connectors that electrically couple corresponding elements in coupled segments of the optical digital signal link and optical signal connectors that optically couple corresponding elements in coupled segments of the optical digital signal link.

In some embodiments, the intrapersonal data communication system can include one or more optical digital signal adapters configured to convert electrical digital signals to optical digital signals and/or optical digital signals to electrical digital signals. An optical digital signal adapter can include a transmitter configured to produce an amount of radiation corresponding to an input level of electrical voltage or current. The optical digital signal adapter can include a receiver having a photosensitive element configured to produce an electrical voltage or current corresponding to a detected level of radiation. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal adapter can include electrically conductive elements configured to conduct electrical currents and/or voltages across the adapter. For example, the optical digital signal adapter can be configured to receive an electrical digital signal and convert it to an optical digital signal as well as to receive an electrical voltage and transmit a corresponding electrical voltage. Thus, the optical digital signal adapter receives electrical digital signals and electrical voltages and transmits optical digital signals and electrical voltages that correspond to the respective input signals and voltages. Similarly, the optical digital signal adapter can be configured to receive optical digital signals and convert the received signals into electrical digital signals as well as transmit received electrical voltages. Thus, the optical digital signal adapter receives optical digital signals and electrical voltages and transmits electrical digital signals and electrical voltages that correspond to the respective input signals and voltages. In some embodiments, a local device can include a signal converter that is configured to send and receive optical digital signals and therefore such local device uses an optical digital signal bridge to couple to the optical digital signal link rather than an optical digital signal adapter.

An optical digital signal can be transmitted between elements and/or segments of the intrapersonal data communication system, including local devices, using non-contact optical connectors. For example, an optical digital signal bridge can include a non-contact optical connector that is configured to transmit an optical digital signal from a first segment of the optical digital signal link across a gap to a second segment of the optical digital signal link. A local device can include a non-contact optical connector that is configured to couple an optical digital signal to a corresponding non-contact optical connector that is coupled to the optical digital signal link. Similarly, an optical digital signal adapter can include a non-contact optical connector that is configured to transmit an optical digital signal produced by the adapter to a corresponding non-contact optical connector that is coupled to the optical digital signal link.

The intrapersonal data communication system can include optical signal communication links which can include optical digital signal bridges and/or optical digital signal adapters. An optical signal communication link can be configured to couple electrical voltages and optical digital signals between segments of the optical digital signal link, between a local device and a segment of the optical digital signal link, or between other components of the intrapersonal data communication system. In some embodiments, the optical signal communication link can include a connector having a first surface that is configured to releasably mate with or couple to a first surface on a complementary connector that is part of a local device, an optical digital signal bridge, an optical digital signal adapter, or other component of the intrapersonal data communication system. The optical signal communication link can include a plurality of connector elements disposed on the first surface of the connector that are configured to couple to complementary elements on the first surface of the complementary connector. For an optical digital signal adapter or local device, for example, the plurality of connector elements can include a power connector element configured to transmit an electrical voltage, a return connector element configured to transmit an electrical voltage, and a digital signal pin configured to transmit an electrical digital signal. For an optical digital signal adapter or local device, for example, the plurality of connector elements can include the power connector element and the return connector element, as above, and can include a non-contact optical connector configured to transmit an optical digital signal. In some embodiments, the plurality of connector pins can include a redundant power connector element configured to transmit an electrical voltage, a redundant return connector element configured to transmit an electrical voltage, additional digital signal pins configured to transmit electrical digital signals, and/or additional non-contact optical connectors configured to transmit optical digital signals.

The optical digital signal adapter or local device can include a fiber optic transmitter which includes a radiation source and an integrated circuit configured to control a radiation output from the radiation source, the radiation output corresponding to a transmitter input signal. The transmitter input signal can include signals such as, for example, an electrical digital signal from the visualization system, an electrical digital signal from the data processing system, a multiplexed electrical digital signal, or any combination of these. In some embodiments, the optical signal adapter or local device can include a fiber optic receiver configured to receive an optical digital signal and produce an electrical digital signal. The fiber optic receiver can be configured to produce an electrical signal corresponding to an amount of input radiation using a photodetector, a transimpedance amplifier, and a limiting amplifier.

In some embodiments, a non-contact optical connector on an optical signal communication link can include an optical system for substantially collimating output radiation or focusing input radiation for transmission between optical fibers or waveguides in a corresponding optical signal communication link. The optical system of the non-contact optical connector can include a collimating or focusing lens that is disposed in a cavity of the connector wherein the lens is positioned less than or equal to about 1 mm from a surface of the connector, less than or equal to about 0.5 mm from the surface of the connector, or less than or equal to about 0.25 mm from the surface of the connector. In some embodiments, a non-contact optical connector on a first optical signal communication link can include a tightly bundled group of optical fibers configured to receive an optical digital signal after transmission through the optical system. The optical system and/or tightly bundled group of optical fibers can be configured to reduce optical signal losses between optical signal communication links caused by angular misalignment and/or position displacement between coupled non-contact optical connectors. In some embodiments, the non-contact optical connector includes a transparent window configured to have a surface that is substantially co-planar with the surface of the optical signal communication link to provide protection to the optical system or fiber bundle and/or provide a surface that is accessible for cleaning.

In some embodiments, the intrapersonal data communication system can include a multiplexor configured to create an output multiplexed digital signal from multiple digital signals. In some embodiments, the intrapersonal data communication system includes a demultiplexor that can be configured to create multiple output demultiplexed digital signals from an input digital signal. The intrapersonal data communication system can include a single- or dual-spectral band, bi-directional or duplex communication system that uses optical systems, collimating elements, focusing elements, splitters, and/or optical filters for bi-directional optical communication across the optical digital signal link.

Some embodiments provide for an optical signal cable that includes an optical digital signal bridge at a distal end. The optical signal cable can comprise an elongate tube having an insulating member and a shielding member, wherein the optical signal includes, disposed within the elongate tube, a power line configured to transmit an electrical voltage or current, a return line configured to transmit an electrical voltage or current, and fiber optic cable configured to transmit an optical digital signal. The optical digital signal bridge includes a connector interface having a connector surface wherein the connector surface includes a plurality of connector elements including a power connector element electrically coupled to the power line, a return connector element electrically coupled to the return line, and a non-contact optical connector optically coupled to the fiber optic cable. In some embodiments, the optical signal cable can include additional power lines, return lines, and/or fiber optic cables with corresponding connector elements on the optical digital signal bridge. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal bridge can include an alignment mechanism configured to align the connector surface with a corresponding connector interface of a local device, optical digital signal adapter, optical digital signal bridge, or other component of the intrapersonal data communication system to establish a functional signal link. For example, a first optical signal cable having an optical digital signal bridge at a distal end can be coupled to a second optical signal cable having an optical digital signal bridge at a proximal end so that a functional signal link is provided between the first and second optical signal cables. As another example, an optical signal cable having an optical digital signal bridge can be coupled to an optical digital signal adapter configured to convert optical digital signals into electrical digital signals and vice versa. In turn, the adapter can be coupled to a local device that is configured to transmit and receive electrical digital signals, thereby creating a link between the local device and the optical signal cable. As another example, an optical signal cable having an optical digital signal bridge can be coupled to a local device that is configured to send and/or receive optical digital signals, thereby creating a link between the local device and the optical digital signal cable. Thus, according to some embodiments, the intrapersonal data communication system can establish communication and power links between local devices and across interfaces using optical signal cables, optical digital signal bridges, and/or optical digital signal adapters.

The headgear system can include a power source configured to supply power to local devices such as the data processing system and the visualization system, to optical digital signal adapters, and/or signal converters. The power source can be any device or system configured to provide power which includes, without limitation, a battery or series of batteries, a fuel cell, a photovoltaic panel, or any combination of these. In some embodiments, the power source provides less than or equal to about 500 mW of electric power, less than or equal to about 200 mW, less than or equal to about 100 mW, or less than or equal to about 50 mW. Some embodiments provide a headgear system where the transmission rate of digital information is based on the situation, and can be less than or equal to about 10 Gbps in situations where real-time, low-latency processing is desired, and can be less than or equal to about 5 kbps in active standby situations, wherein the power source provides in either situation less than or equal to about 500 mW of power, less than or equal to about 200 mW of power, less than or equal to about 100 mW of power, or less than or equal to about 50 mW of power.

Some embodiments provide for a method of transmitting information between local devices, such as between a visualization system and a data processing system, wherein the method includes encoding information from a first local device into an electrical digital signal. The electrical digital signal can be converted to an optical digital signal on the first local device using a signal converter that is part of the first local device or using a first optical digital signal adapter that is coupled to the first local device. The resulting optical digital signal can be coupled to an optical digital signal link and transmitted over the optical digital signal link. The optical digital signal can then be coupled to a second optical digital signal adapter or a second local device having a signal converter where it is converted to a second electrical digital signal that contains substantially the same information as the first electrical digital signal. If the optical digital signal is converted in the second digital signal adapter, the second electrical digital signal can then be coupled to the second local device. The second local device can then decode the second electrical digital signal and process the decoded information. In some embodiments, the intrapersonal data communication system can include a power source and a controller configured to control an amount of power delivered to components of the intrapersonal data communication system. In some embodiments, the controller can be configured to direct an amount of power to the components for transmission of the information between the local devices wherein the average amount of power is less than or equal to about 500 mW with average peak data transmission rates less than or equal to about 10 Gbps. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to direct an average amount of power that is less than or equal to about 200 mW, less than or equal to about 100 mW, less than or equal to about 60 mW, or less than or equal to about 50 mW. In some embodiments, the peak rate of data transmission of the information is less than or equal to about 4 Gbps, less than or equal to about 2 Gbps, less than or equal to about 1 Gbps, or less than or equal to about 5 kbps in active standby situations. In some embodiments, the transmitted information can include, for example, uncompressed video data, compressed video data, thermal data, GPS data, compass data, inertial or rate sensor data, sensor synchronization signals, object location data, or any combination of these or other data.

Some embodiments provide for a method for connecting an interference-resistant cable to a headgear system including a visualization system and a data processing system. The method can include modifying the headgear system such that a path is created between the visualization system and the data processing system for the interference-resistant cable, and putting the interference-resistant cable in the headgear system to create a communication link between the visualization system and the data processing system. In some embodiments, the interference-resistant cable includes an elongate tube having a metallic layer and an insulation layer, and an optical fiber disposed within the elongate tube. The headgear system can include a helmet that has an exterior shell. The modifying step of the method can include creating a path from the visualization system to the data processing system wherein the path is disposed adjacent to the exterior shell.

Example Headgear Systems

FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram representing an example headgear system 100 having an intrapersonal data communication system. The headgear system 100 can include items such as, for example, a helmet, cap, eyewear system with ear stems with resilient member, facemask, hat, head band, or any combination of these. The headgear system 100 includes a mount interface 102 configured to couple with a local device, such as a visualization system 110 and/or a data processing system 112. The headgear system 100 includes an exterior shell 104 and an inner padding 106. The exterior shell 104 and the inner padding 106 can be integrally formed or be separate components of the headgear system 100. The headgear system 100 includes a guide path 108 configured to provide support, guidance, and/or protection for an optical digital signal link 114. The guide path 108 can be integrally formed with the headgear system 100; a separate component in the headgear system 100; integrally formed with the exterior shell 104; integrally formed with the inner padding 106; or a cavity adjacent to the inner padding 106, adjacent to the exterior shell 104, or between the exterior shell 104 and the inner padding 106. The optical digital signal link 114 of the headgear system 100 can be configured to transmit or propagate signals between local devices, such as between the visualization system 110 and the data processing system 112, between a local device and a component external to the intrapersonal data communication system or headgear system, and/or between any components of the intrapersonal data communication system.

Mount Interfaces

The mount interface 102 of the headgear system 100 can be configured to couple with a local device, such as the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112. There may be one or more mount interfaces configured to couple with one or more visualization systems and/or one or more data processing systems. The mount interface 102 can be configured to releasably couple with the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112. The mount interface 102 can be configured to non-releasably couple with the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112.

The coupling between the mount interface 102 and the visualization system 110 or the data processing system 112 can be accomplished through any appropriate technique. For example, the visualization system 110 or the data processing system 112 can have a mount interface structure that releasably mates with the mount interface 102 such that the visualization system 110 or the data processing system 112 can snap into place and secured in place using clips, latches, friction mounts, springs, and the like. As another example, the visualization system 110 or the data processing system 112 can couple to the mount interface 102 by utilizing corresponding fasteners and mating components. The mount interface 102 can include one or more holes that correspond to one or more threaded members on the visualization system 110 or data processing system 112 through which screws may pass and mate to the corresponding threaded members on the corresponding system. The visualization system 110 or data processing system 112 can include one or more holes corresponding to one or more holes on the mount interface 102 through which bolts may pass and mated with nuts to secure the corresponding system to the mount interface. In some embodiments, adhesives can be used to couple the mount interface 102 and the visualization system 110 or the data processing system 112. In some embodiments, magnets or electromagnets can be used to couple the mount interface 102 and the visualization system 110 or the data processing system 112. In some embodiments, the mount interface includes a clamp ring, band clamp, a sleeve, or another type of clamp configured to substantially secure the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 and the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112 include components configured to releasably mate with one another using a locking element, a friction fit element, another suitable element, or a combination of elements. For example, the mount interface 102 includes a substantially planar member including a relatively narrow protruding member extending at least partially along its edges. The relatively narrow protruding member includes a lip member extending along at least a portion of one edge of the relatively narrow protruding member, the lip member being orthogonal to the relatively narrow protruding member and configured to extend towards the interior of the substantially planar member. The visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112 include corresponding members that are configured to mate with the substantially planar member of the mount interface 102. The mount interface 102 may include a locking member or friction member such that when the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112 is positioned to mate with the substantially planar member of the mount interface 102, the locking member or friction member can be engaged to substantially secure the mount interface 102 to the corresponding system 110 and/or 112.

In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be integrally formed with the headgear system 100. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be a separate component attachable to the headgear system 100. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 includes multiple pieces. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 includes a single, unitary piece. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be attached to the exterior shell 104. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be integrally formed with the exterior shell 104. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be attached to the inner padding 106. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be integrally formed with the inner padding 106.

The mount interface 102 can be attached to the headgear system 100 through any appropriate technique. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 includes a strap and substantially rigid members on the proximal and distal ends of the strap configured to conform to the shape of a portion of the headgear system 100. The length of the strap can be adjusted such that when the length of the strap has been reduced sufficiently the substantially rigid members apply a force on the headgear system 100 such that the mount interface 102 becomes substantially affixed to the headgear system 100 through the friction between the substantially rigid members and the portions of the headgear system with which they are in contact. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 is attached to the headgear system 100 by either drilling holes in the headgear system or utilizing pre-existing holes in the headgear system; inserting one or more bolts, screws, or other fasteners through the hole; or mating a nut or other component configured to mate with the bolt, screw, or other fastener to the distal end of the fastener such that the mount interface 102 is substantially affixed to the headgear system 100. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be attached to the headgear system 100 by utilizing an adhesive suitable for affixing the mount interface 102 to the headgear system 100. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 can be attached to the headgear system 100 utilizing friction. For example, in certain embodiments the mount interface 102 includes a clamping member configured to apply forces on the headgear system 100 such that the mount interface is substantially affixed to the headgear system 100 through the friction between the clamping member and the portions of the headgear system 100 that are in contact with the clamping member. Examples of clamping members include spring clamps, toggle clamps, band clamps, screw or threaded clamps, or the like.

The mount interface 102 can be configured to substantially secure the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112 in one or more different orientations and/or positions relative to the headgear system 100. For example, the mount interface 102 can include one or more jointed rods and/or plates configured to allow the visualization system 110 and/or data processing system 112 to be pivotally moved to, and substantially secured in, a variety of orientations relative to the headgear system 100. In some embodiments, the mount interface 102 is configured to permit the visualization system 110 and/or the data processing system 112 to be moved translationally and/or rotationally utilizing any appropriate mechanism such as, for example, threaded adjuster screws, friction-based slide mounts, or the like.

Exterior Shell

In some embodiments, the exterior shell 104 of the headgear system 100 includes a single, unitary piece. In some embodiments, the exterior shell 104 includes a plurality of components. The exterior shell 104 can be configured to cover at least a portion of a person's skull when in use. The exterior shell 104 can be configured to provide protection to the user by absorbing, redirecting, and/or distributing the force of an impact to lessen the trauma to the user. The exterior shell 104 can be configured to deflect projectiles. The exterior shell 104 may be of a traditional shape and configuration for each of a variety of sports or hazardous activities. The exterior shell 104 can be made of plastic, polyethylene, carbon fiber, reinforced fibers such as an aramid (e.g., KEVLAR® or Twaron®), epoxy fiber materials, polycarbonate plastic, or any type of metal, or any combination of these materials. The exterior shell 104 can be of an injection-molded construction of polymeric/copolymeric material.

Inner Padding

The inner padding 106 of the headgear system 100, if included, can be made of a single, unitary piece or a plurality of components. In some embodiments, the inner padding 106 can be configured to substantially conform to the general shape of a portion of a user's skull. In some embodiments, the inner padding 106 can be configured to absorb the force of an impact to the skull of the user thereby reducing the impulse imparted to the user. In some embodiments, the inner padding 106 includes a deformable headpiece, interior padding affixed to an interior surface of the exterior shell 104, an inner layer of foam material, and a padding layer. The inner padding 106 can be made of a high density foam such as, for example, expanded polystyrene (EPS), high density polyethylene (HDPE), expanded polypropylene (EPP), vinyl nitril, an air management system, or any combination of these.

Guide Path

The guide path 108 of the headgear system 100 can be configured to provide support, guidance, and/or protection for the optical digital signal link 114. In some embodiments, the guide path 108 includes a lumen through which the optical digital signal link 114 passes. The lumen can be made of a substantially rigid material which provides protection to the optical digital signal link 114 from potentially damaging forces. The lumen can be adjacent to an interior or exterior surface of the exterior shell 104. In some embodiments, the guide path 108 includes a region between the inner padding 106 and the exterior shell 104 sufficient to house the optical digital signal link 114. In some embodiments, the guide path 108 includes a cavity within or along the inner padding 106 sufficient to allow at least a portion of the optical digital signal link 114 to be housed within the cavity. The cavity can be formed in the inner padding 106 after the headgear system 100 has been manufactured or it can be manufactured with a cavity suitable to act as the guide path 108. The guide path 108 can be formed as an integral part of the interior padding 106 and/or the exterior shell 104. In some embodiments, the guide path 108 includes a separate component secured to the surface of the inner padding 106, the exterior shell 104, or both. In some embodiments, the guide path 108 includes a plurality of rigid members configured to substantially secure a portion of the optical digital signal link 114. The plurality of rigid members can be attached to the exterior shell 104, the inner padding 106, or both the exterior shell 104 and the inner padding 106. The plurality of rigid members can be affixed to the headgear system using adhesives, clamps, friction mounts, magnets, electromagnets, or fasteners. In certain embodiments, one or more of the rigid members include clips which are configured to receive the optical digital signal link 114 and substantially secure it in place by the use of friction. In certain embodiments, one or more of the rigid members include hooks configured to receive the optical digital signal link 114. The guide path 108 can include an elongate tube configured to allow the optical digital signal link 114 to fit within the elongate tube. The guide path 108 can be a path between an interior portion of the exterior shell 104 and a portion of the inner padding 106 adjacent to the interior portion of the exterior shell 104.

Visualization System

The visualization system 110 includes one or more components configured to acquire image data and/or display information to a user. The visualization system 110 can be configured to communication imagery data across the intrapersonal data communication system to other local devices or to external systems. The visualization system 110 can be configured to receive information from other local devices or external systems using the intrapersonal data communication system, and to display the received information to a user. Example visualization systems are described in greater detail herein with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2C.

Data Processing System

The data processing system 112 includes one or more hardware processors, controllers, and/or memory. The data processing system 112 can be configured to process information received over the intrapersonal data communication system wherein the information originates in a local device, an external system, sensors, or the like. The data processing system 112 can receive the information, process it, and send the processed information to local devices using the intrapersonal data communication system. Example data processing systems are described in greater detail herein with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C.

Optical Digital Signal Link

The intrapersonal data communication system of the headgear system 100 can include optical digital signal link 114 configured to transmit and/or propagate electrical voltages and/or optical digital signals between elements or components of the headgear system 110 and the intrapersonal communication system. To propagate the optical digital signals, the optical digital signal link 114 includes one or more optical waveguides. The optical waveguides can be rectangular waveguides, optical fibers, fiber optic cables, and the like. For example, the optical digital signal link 114 can include one or more optical fibers that have a silica-based core that is configured to transmit radiation and that is surrounded by a silica-based cladding having a lower index of refraction than the silica-based core. The silica-based cladding can be surrounded by one or more coatings. The one or more optical fibers can be, for example, single-mode or multi-mode optical fiber. To propagate electrical voltages, the optical digital signal link 114 can include one or more conductive electrical wires configured to carry electrical current or voltage.

In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 includes a protective sheath of tubing made of metal or a metallic braided material surrounding the one or more wires and the one or more optical waveguides. The protective sheath can be configured to provide structural support to the optical digital signal link 114, to reduce the effects of electromagnetic interference within the optical digital signal link 114, and/or to protect the optical digital signal link 114 from damage from external forces, pressures, or environmental elements.

In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 can be configured to carry information between local devices, such as between the visualization system 110 and the data processing system 112. Information can be digitized and converted into an optical digital signal to be introduced to the optical digital signal link 114. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 includes at least one optical fiber per direction of communication, such as, for example, at least one optical fiber carries communication from the visualization system 110 to the data processing system 112 and at least one optical fiber carries communication from the data processing system 112 to the visualization system 110. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 includes the ability to support duplex or bi-directional dual-spectral band communication on the fibers, thereby enabling communication redundancy when two or more fibers are used, as described with greater detail herein with reference to FIGS. 4C and 6B. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 can be configured to support real-time video and digital communication with a bandwidth of less than or equal to about 10 Gbps, less than or equal to about 4 Gbps, less than or equal to about 2 Gbps, or less than or equal to about 1 Gbps, and in lower-demand or standby modes the bandwidth can be decreased to about a 5 kbps.

In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 includes a segment coupled to the visualization system 110 and another segment coupled to the data processing system 112. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 can include a plurality of segments being operatively coupled through one or more optical digital signal bridges or connectors. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 couples with a first signal converter 116 (e.g., an optical digital signal bridge, an optical digital signal adapter, a signal converter within a local device, etc.) at a first end and a second signal converter 116 at a second end. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 can be coupled to a signal converter 116 at a first end and an optical digital signal bridge at a second end.

Some embodiments provide an optical digital signal link 114 that has a total length that is at least about 10 cm and/or less than or equal to about 1 m, at least about 20 cm and/or less than or equal to about 50 cm, or at least about 25 cm and/or less than or equal to about 45 cm.

Signal Converter

In some embodiments, information from the visualization system 110 or data processing system 112 can be digitized by the corresponding system 110 or 112 and converted by a signal converter 116 into an optical digital signal suitable for transmission over the optical digital signal link 114. The signal converter 116 can be integrated into the local device or it can be a separate component, such as an optical digital signal adapter, as described herein. Examples of signal converters are described with greater detail herein with reference to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C.

The signal converter 116 can convert the electrical digital signal from a local device, such as the visualization system 110 or data processing system 112, to an optical digital signal. The signal converter 116 can include an integrated circuit that controls a radiation source, such as, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED), a laser diode, or a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL). The radiation source of the signal converter 116 emits radiation corresponding to the input electrical digital signal which can be coupled to an optical waveguide within the signal converter 116 before transmission to the optical digital signal link 114 or it can be directly coupled to an the optical digital signal link 114. The signal converter 116 can be coupled to the optical digital signal link 114 using an optical digital signal bridge or other similar connector.

The optical digital signal being carried by the optical digital signal link 114 can be converted into an electrical digital signal by the signal converter 116. For example, the optical digital signal can be coupled to the signal converter 116 which includes a photodetector, transimpedance amplifier (TIA), and limiting amplifier (LIA) configured to produce an electrical digital signal that corresponds to the received optical digital signal. In some embodiments, the electrical digital signal output from the signal converter 116 can be transmitted to a local device, such as the visualization system 110 or data processing system 112, through an optical digital signal bridge. In some embodiments, the signal converter 116 is integrated into the local device receiving the optical digital signal.

In some embodiments, power from a power source, such as a power source within the data processing system 112, can be provided to local devices on the intrapersonal data communication system, such as the visualization system 110, through wires in the optical digital signal link 114. A voltage can be applied to at least one of the wires in the optical digital signal link 114 and transmitted to other components through electrical connectors at interfaces between components. For example, power can be delivered to the visualization system 110 through the signal converter 116, wherein the signal converter 116 includes an electrical connection between the optical digital signal link 114 and a corresponding interface on the visualization system 110.

Example Headgear Systems Having an Intrapersonal Data Communication System

FIGS. 1B, 1C and 1D illustrate example embodiments of a headgear system 100 having an intrapersonal data communication system. The headgear system 100 can be a helmet such as, for example, an Advanced Combat Helmet, a Modular Integrated Communications Helmet, a Mk. 7 Helmet, a SPECTRA Helmet, a Max Pro Police RD-Tac Tactical Helmet, or the like. The exterior shell 104 can be made of ballistic fiber such as Kevlar® or Twaron®. The inner padding 106 can be made of a high-density foam material which substantially conforms to a portion of the user's skull.

The mount interface 102 a is releasably coupled to the visualization system 110. The coupling can be accomplished by any appropriate technique, including, for example, the techniques disclosed herein. The mount interface 102 a is also releasably coupled to the exterior shell 104 of the helmet. The coupling can be accomplished by any appropriate technique, including, for example, the techniques disclosed herein. The visualization system 110 includes a monocular goggle, such as, for example, a thermal goggle, a night-vision goggle, a multi-imaging sensor goggle, or the like. Two mount interfaces 102 a are shown in FIGS. 1B and 1D, but both have similar functionality. The mount interface 102 a is configured to move the visualization system 110 into and out of the user's direct line of sight. The mount interface 102 a includes a mechanism configured to translate and/or rotate the visualization system 110 according to a user's desired location. The mount interface 102 a includes a vertical translation and/or rotation mechanism configured to move the visualization system 110 up and out of the user's direct line of sight. The mount interface 102 a can include a strap that is connected to the mount interface 102 b and configured to conform to the shape of the exterior shell 104 and secure the mount interfaces 102 a and 102 b to the helmet 100.

The mount interface 102 b is releasably coupled to the data processing system 112. The mount interface 102 b is also releasably coupled to the exterior shell 104 of the helmet. The mount interface 102 b includes a rigid member configured to support the body of the data processing system and conform to the surface of the exterior shell 104 and extend in a curved fashion under the exterior shell 104 and conform to the surface of the inner padding 106 (as more clearly shown in FIG. 1D). The mount interface 102 b is configured in this manner such that when the strap connecting mount interfaces 102 a and 102 b is contracted in length, the rigid member of mount interface 102 b applies a pressure to the helmet sufficient to substantially secure the data processing system 112 in place. The data processing system 112 can include a hardware processor and memory. The data processing system 112 can include a power source such as, for example, one or more batteries.

The optical digital signal link 114 is configured to provide a communication link between the visualization system 110 and the data processing system 112. The transmission rate across the optical digital signal link can be less than or equal to about 10 Gbps, less than or equal to about 4 Gbps, less than or equal to about 2 Gbps, less than or equal to about 1 Gbps, with rates down to a few kbps in active standby modes. The optical digital signal link can be configured to transmit digital information including information, such as, for example, compressed video data, compressed image data, uncompressed video data, uncompressed image data, textual data, location data, cartographic data, audio data, angular rate or tilt data, weapon pointing data, compass data, synchronization data, digital commands, or any combination of these. The optical digital signal link 114 includes at least one optical fiber configured to transmit an optical digital signal between the visualization system 110 and the data processing system 112. In some embodiments, the at least one optical fiber includes a multi-mode fiber. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 includes a power wire and a return wire. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 includes a metallic tubing to provide protection, support, and resistance to electromagnetic interference. The optical digital signal link 114 can include an insulation layer, to provide mechanical support, thermal stability, electromagnetic insulation, and the like. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 includes two or more sets of power and return wires to provide redundancy in the power supply system. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 114 conveys power from the data processing system 112 to the visualization system 110.

The signal converter 116 a can be part of the visualization system 110 or it can be a separate component (e.g., an optical digital signal adapter) that receives an electrical digital signal from the visualization system 110. The signal converter 116 a can be configured to convert the electrical digital signal of the visualization system 110 into an optical digital signal for transmission over the optical digital signal link 114. In some embodiments, the signal converter 116 a is configured to convert an optical digital signal received from the data processing system 110 over the optical digital signal link 114 to an electrical digital signal for the visualization system 110. In some embodiments, the signal converter 116 a connects power and return lines from the optical digital signal link 114 to the visualization system 110.

Similarly, signal converter 116 b can be configured to convert an electrical digital signal supplied by the data processing system 110 into an optical digital signal for transmission over the optical digital signal link 114. In some embodiments, the signal converter 116 b is configured to convert an optical digital signal received from the visualization system 110 over the optical digital signal link 114 to an electrical digital signal for the data processing system 110. In some embodiments, the signal converter 116 b connects power and return lines from the data processing system 110 to the optical digital signal link 114.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1C and 1D, the optical digital signal link 114 can comprise a plurality of segments. For example, the optical digital signal link 114 can have a mount interface segment that is associated with the mount interface 102 a and a helmet segment that is associated with the helmet 100. The mount interface segment of the optical digital signal link 114 can be internal to the mount interface 102 a as shown, or it can be external to it.

The intrapersonal data communication system can include signal converter 116 c, or optical digital signal bridge, that acts to couple electrical voltages and optical digital signals from the mount interface segment of the optical digital signal link 114 to the helmet segment of the optical digital signal link 114. In some embodiments, a mount interface-side of the signal converter 116 c receives optical digital signals and uses a non-contact optical connector to couple the received optical digital signals to a corresponding non-contact optical connector on a helmet-side of the signal converter 116 c. When the mount interface 102 a is removed from the helmet 100, the signal converter 116 c is divided into two separate parts and a segment of the optical digital signal link 114 that is associated with the mount interface 102 a separates from the other segments of the optical digital signal link 114. When the mount interface 102 a is attached to the helmet 100, the two separate parts of the signal converter 116 c are aligned and coupled so that electrical voltages and optical digital signals can be transmitted between the mount interface segment of the optical digital signal link 114 and the helmet segment of the optical digital signal link 114.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1C, the guide path 108 comprises a path that is adjacent to an interior side of the exterior shell 104 or that is adjacent to the inner padding 106. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1D, the guide path 108 comprises a structure forming a lumen adjacent to the exterior shell 104 through which the optical digital signal link 114 passes.

Example Visualization System

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of an example visualization system 200 having an optical digital signal adapter interface 206. The visualization system 200 includes a body 202, a mounting surface 204, and the optical digital signal adapter interface 206 comprising a plurality of electrical connectors. The body 202 of the visualization system can be configured to house optical components, imaging sensors, display, electricals, buttons for interacting with the user, and the like. The visualization system 200 can include one or more hardware processors and/or memory housed within the body 202. The mounting surface 204 can be configured to couple with a corresponding mount interface on the headgear system. In some embodiments, the mounting surface 204 includes one or more holes configured to receive screws, bolts, rivets, or the like. In some embodiments, the holes are threaded. In some embodiments, the mounting surface 204 includes one or more structures which releasably mate with a corresponding structure on the mount interface of the headgear system. For example, the mounting surface 204 can include rails which mate with corresponding protrusions on the mount interface of the headgear system such that the mounting surface can slide into the protrusions and be substantially secured in place using one or more fiction fitting elements configured to apply pressure to the mounting surface and substantially reduce or eliminate slippage.

The visualization system 200 includes one or more components configured to acquire image data. In some embodiments, the visualization system 200 includes a thermal camera or thermal goggle. The thermal camera or thermal goggle can be configured to display a visual image corresponding to the quantity of infrared radiation emanating from objects and background within the line of sight of the thermal camera or thermal goggle, as imaged by the camera optics onto an infrared-sensing detector. The infrared radiation falling on the detector is converted to a corresponding electrical signal that can be converted to a corrected and image-processed digital value via video processing electronics, which can be passed to a display system configured to display information to a user. In some embodiments, the display system produces an intensity of visible radiation corresponding to the digital value of the infrared radiation. In some embodiments, the display system produces a color within the visible spectrum corresponding to the digital value of the infrared radiation. Examples of infrared detectors include those based on pyroelectric sensors, ferroelectric materials, photovoltaic or photoconductive devices, or microbolometer devices.

In some embodiments, the visualization system 200 includes a goggle or camera configured to display visual information corresponding to amplified radiation signals in the line of sight of the optical components of the goggle. For example, the visualization system 110 can include a night-vision goggle. The night-vision goggle can include an adjustable objective lens assembly, an image intensifier tube assembly or an Electron Bombarded Active Pixel Sensor (EBAPS) and display, and an adjustable ocular lens assembly. The amplified radiation signals from the image intensifier tube can be presented for direct viewing on the phosphor display of the image intensifier tube, or the direct view image can be converted to a digital value via an image sensor, such as, for example, a CCD or CMOS imaging sensor. The image sensor can be configured to be sensitive to radiation falling within the ultraviolet, visible, near infrared, and/or short-wave infrared spectra. The image sensor can be configured to be sensitive to radiation having a wavelength falling between about 0.3 and 1.7 microns, between about 0.3 and 0.4 microns, between about 0.4 and 0.75 microns, between about 0.75 and 1.4 microns, or between about 0.9 to about 1.7 microns. The output of the image sensor can be passed to a display system that produces, in some embodiments, an intensity of visible radiation corresponding to the digital value of the amplified radiation signal, and in some embodiments, a frequency of visible radiation corresponding to the digital value of the amplified radiation signal. The EBAPS can include a CMOS Active Pixel Sensor as its readout which can convert the amplified radiation signal to a video electrical signal. The low-noise amplification mechanism of the photon generated electrons in the intensifier tube or EBAPS based camera or goggle allows the units to deliver high image signals for relatively low levels of light falling within the visible spectrum such that the camera or goggle can assist a user to detect an object that the bare human eye would be relatively incapable of distinguishing without the assistance of a device that amplifies radiation signals.

In some embodiments, the visualization system 200 includes a system configured to display information to the user. For example, the display system can include a liquid crystal display (LCD), LED display, or organic LED (OLED) display. The information displayed to the user can include image information derived from an image sensor system or infrared sensor system, textual information, maps, positions of objects or persons, augmented reality information, computer generated images and/or video, location data, weapon pointing data, compass data, all of the preceding, or any combination of these. For example, the information may be derived from the environment of the user, may be supplied by the user, may be supplied by a person or entity besides the user, or may be computer-generated, or any combination of these.

In some embodiments, the visualization system 200 can include a wireless communication system. The wireless communication system can include a system, such as, for example, an ultra-wide band communication system, radio frequency communication, Bluetooth communication, or any combination of these.

Example Optical Digital Signal Adapter for a Visualization System

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal adapter 201 that mates with an example visualization system 200 having an optical digital signal adapter interface 206. The optical digital signal adapter 201 can be configured to releasably mate with the visualization system 200. Mount interface 203 can be configured to couple with corresponding mount interface 204 on the visualization system 200.

The optical digital signal adapter 201 is configured to receive electrical digital signals from the visualization system 200 through connectors on the adapter interface 206. The electrical digital signals are electrically coupled to the optical digital signal adapter 201 through connector elements 205 that mate with corresponding connectors on the adapter interface 206. The optical digital signal adapter 201 is configured to convert the electrical digital signals into optical digital signals. The converted optical digital signals can be transmitted using an optical digital signal link (not shown) coupled to the optical digital signal adapter 201. In some embodiments, the adapter 201 is configured to convert electrical digital signals to optical digital signals and to convert optical digital signals to electrical digital signals that are electrically coupled to the visualization system 200 through the adapter interface 206. In some embodiments, the adapter interface 206 is configured to couple power and return lines between the visualization system 200 and the optical digital signal link. The adapter interface 206 can include a plurality of male or female connector pins that mate with the compatible connector elements 205 on the adapter 201. The adapter interface 206 and connector elements 205 shown in the figures include ten connector elements. In some embodiments, the adapter interface 206 and adapter connector elements 205 include less than 10 connector elements, more than 10 connector elements. For example, the adapter interface 206 can include a connector element to couple to a power line, a connector element to couple to a return line, and a connector element to couple to an electrical digital signal. The adapter interface 206 can include a connector element to couple to a redundant power line and a connector element to couple to a redundant return line. The adapter interface 206 can include connector elements for multiple electrical digital signals. The adapter interface 206 can be a circular connector, a square connector, a rectangular connector, or any other suitably shaped connector. The adapter interface 206 can include male or female connector elements aligned in columns, in rows, in concentric circles, in clusters, or any other suitable configuration.

Example Visualization System Having an Integrated Signal Converter

FIG. 2C illustrates a perspective view of an example visualization system 200 having an optical digital signal bridge interface 206 comprising electrical and non-contact optical connectors. The visualization system 200 has the same or similar functionality as the visualization system described herein with reference to FIG. 2A except that the visualization system 200 includes a signal converter. The visualization system 200 signal converter is configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals, as described herein. The bridge interface 206 can include electrical connector elements and non-contact optical connectors 210. In some embodiments, the electrical connector elements can be conductive pads on a surface of a connector of the bridge interface 206. In some embodiments, the non-contact optical connectors 210 can include transparent windows that have a surface that is even with the surface of the connector of the bridge interface 206. The connector elements of the bridge interface 206 can be configured to couple to corresponding connector elements on an optical digital signal bridge 201, as described with reference to FIG. 2D.

Example Optical Digital Signal Bridge for a Visualization System

FIG. 2D illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal bridge 201 that mates with an example visualization system 200 having an optical digital signal bridge interface 206. The optical digital signal bridge 201 can be configured to receive an optical digital signal from the non-contact optical connectors 210 on the visualization system 200 and couple them to an optical digital signal link (not shown). Similarly, the optical digital signal bridge 201 can be configured to couple optical digital signals from the optical digital signal link to the visualization system 200 through corresponding non-contact optical connectors 210 on the optical digital signal bridge 201 and the bridge interface 206 of the visualization system 200. The optical digital signal bridge 201 has similar mounting features 203 as the optical digital signal adapter 201 described herein with reference to FIG. 2B.

The optical digital signal bridge 201 can include electrical connectors 208 that are configured to electrically couple to corresponding conductive elements on the bridge interface 206 of the visualization system 200. The electrical connectors 208 can have a plunger-type design wherein they are configured to recess into the bridge 201 when a force is applied and return to a default position when no force is applied. This can allow the electrical connectors 208 to remain electrically coupled to the bridge interface 206 during use.

The optical digital signal bridge 201 can include non-contact optical connectors 210 that are configured to optically couple optical digital signals between the bridge 201 and the visualization system 200. As described herein, the non-contact optical connectors 210 can include elements configured to collimate and/or focus optical signals for transmission across a gap. Furthermore, the non-contact optical connectors 210 can include transparent windows that have an exterior surface that is level with a surface of the connector interface 205. In this way, the interior optical components can be protected and the surface of the connector can be cleaned with relative ease.

Example Data Processing System

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of an example data processing system 300 having an optical digital signal adapter interface 306. The data processing system 300 includes a body 302, a mounting surface 304, and the optical digital signal interface 306. The body 302 is configured to house the components of the data processing system 300 such as one or more hardware processors and memory. The mounting surface 304 can be configured to releasably couple with a mount interface on a headgear system. The coupling can be accomplished by any suitable mechanism, including those described herein.

The data processing system 300 can include a power source. The power source can include sources such as, for example, a battery or series of batteries, photovoltaic material, a solar panel, or any combination of these. The power source can be configured to provide sufficient power to the data processing system 300 and/or other local devices or components of the intrapersonal data communication system. The data processing system 300 can include computer readable storage, one or more internal communications interlinks (such as, for example, internal buses), and one or more external communications interlinks. In some embodiments, the data processing system 300 includes a transceiver element configured to send and receive information to and from devices through radio frequency signals, ultra-wideband technology, fiber optics, wired communication, or the like.

The data processing system 300 can be configured to process signals from other data sources. Data sources can include, for example, sensors mounted on a headgear system, sensors incorporated with the data processing system 300, sensors or controls external to the headgear system, or any combination of these. The data sources can be delivered to the data processing system 300 via electrical wire, optical fiber, or wireless link.

In some embodiments, the data processing system 300 can be configured to process image information, textual information, communication, instructions, or the like. For example, the data processing system 300 can be configured to receive image information from a visualization system, process the image information according to software or user instructions, and send information back to the visualization system where the information can be displayed to a user. In some embodiments, the data processing system 300 receives information via wireless communication from a device or external system that the data processing system 300 can then relay to another local device through the intrapersonal data communication system. In some embodiments, the data processing system 300 generates information based on internal instructions which it can send to other local devices.

Example Optical Digital Signal Adapter for a Data Processing System

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal adapter 301 that mates with an example data processing system 300 having an optical digital signal adapter interface 306. The optical digital signal adapter 301 can be configured to releasably mate with the data processing system 300. Mount interface 303 can be configured to couple with corresponding mount interface 304 on the data processing system 300.

The optical digital signal adapter 301 is configured to receive electrical digital signals from the data processing system 300 through connectors on the adapter interface 306. The electrical digital signals are electrically coupled to the optical digital signal adapter 301 through connector elements 305 that mate with corresponding connectors on the adapter interface 306. The optical digital signal adapter 301 is configured to convert the electrical digital signals into optical digital signals. The converted optical digital signals can be transmitted using an optical digital signal link (not shown) coupled to the optical digital signal adapter 301. In some embodiments, the adapter 301 is configured to convert electrical digital signals to optical digital signals and to convert optical digital signals to electrical digital signals that are electrically coupled to the data processing system 300 through the adapter interface 306. In some embodiments, the adapter interface 306 is configured to couple power and return lines between the data processing system 300 and the optical digital signal link. The adapter interface 306 can include a plurality of male or female connector pins that mate with the compatible connector elements 305 on the adapter 301. The adapter interface 306 and connector elements 305 shown in the figures include ten connector elements. In some embodiments, the adapter interface 306 and adapter connector elements 305 include less than 10 connector elements, more than 10 connector elements. For example, the adapter interface 306 can include a connector element to couple to a power line, a connector element to couple to a return line, and a connector element to couple to an electrical digital signal. The adapter interface 306 can include a connector element to couple to a redundant power line and a connector element to couple to a redundant return line. The adapter interface 306 can include connector elements for multiple electrical digital signals. The adapter interface 306 can be a circular connector, a square connector, a rectangular connector, or any other suitably shaped connector. The adapter interface 306 can include male or female connector elements aligned in columns, in rows, in concentric circles, in clusters, or any other suitable configuration.

Example Data Processing System Having an Integrated Signal Converter

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of an example data processing system 300 having an optical digital signal bridge interface 306 comprising electrical and non-contact optical connectors. The data processing system 300 has the same or similar functionality as the data processing system described herein with reference to FIG. 3A except that the data processing system 300 includes a signal converter. The data processing system 300 signal converter is configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals, as described herein. The bridge interface 306 can include electrical connector elements and non-contact optical connectors 310. In some embodiments, the electrical connector elements can be conductive pads on a surface of a connector of the bridge interface 306. In some embodiments, the non-contact optical connectors 310 can include transparent windows that have a surface that is even with the surface of the connector of the bridge interface 306. The connector elements of the bridge interface 306 can be configured to couple to corresponding connector elements on an optical digital signal bridge 301, as described with reference to FIG. 3D.

Example Optical Digital Signal Bridge for a Data Processing System

FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of an example optical digital signal bridge 301 that mates with an example data processing system 300 having an optical digital signal bridge interface 306. The optical digital signal bridge 301 can be configured to receive an optical digital signal from the non-contact optical connectors 310 on the data processing system 300 and couple them to an optical digital signal link (not shown). Similarly, the optical digital signal bridge 301 can be configured to couple optical digital signals from the optical digital signal link to the data processing system 300 through corresponding non-contact optical connectors 310 on the optical digital signal bridge 301 and the bridge interface 306 of the data processing system 300. The optical digital signal bridge 301 has similar mounting features 303 as the optical digital signal adapter 301 described herein with reference to FIG. 3B.

The optical digital signal bridge 301 can include electrical connectors 308 that are configured to electrically couple to corresponding conductive elements on the bridge interface 306 of the data processing system 300. The electrical connectors 308 can have a plunger-type design wherein they are configured to recess into the bridge 301 when a force is applied and return to a default position when no force is applied. This can allow, the electrical connectors 308 to remain electrically coupled to the bridge interface 306 during use.

The optical digital signal bridge 301 can include non-contact optical connectors 310 that are configured to optically couple optical digital signals between the bridge 301 and the data processing system 300. As described herein, the non-contact optical connectors 310 can include elements configured to collimate and/or focus optical signals for transmission across a gap. Furthermore, the non-contact optical connectors 310 can include transparent windows that have an exterior surface that is level with a surface of the connector interface 305. In this way, the interior optical components can be protected and the surface of the connector can be cleaned with relative ease.

Example Interface Elements

FIG. 4A illustrates a block diagram representing a local device electrical connector 400, an optical digital signal adapter 401, and an optical digital signal link 402 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the electrical connector 400 can be configured to couple to the adapter 401 which can be configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals. The optical digital signal adapter 401 can be used when signal conversion is to be performed outside a local device such that the adapter 401 can be a separate component. The adapter 401 couples with the local device electrical connector 400 through compatible mating elements 403 and 404. The compatible mating elements 403 and 404 can be configured to couple power, return, redundant power, redundant return, digital output, and digital input lines between the adapter 401 and local device through the electrical connector 400. The configuration illustrated in FIG. 4A can be utilized where the local device is configured to transmit and/or receive electrical digital signals and the optical digital signal adapter can be used to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals for use with an optical digital signal link of an intrapersonal data communication system.

FIG. 4B illustrates a block diagram representing a local device having a signal converter 400 within the local device, and an optical digital signal link 402 according to some embodiments. The local device having the signal converter 400 can be configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals and to couple with the optical digital signal link 402. The configuration illustrated in FIG. 4B can be utilized where the local device is configured to transmit and/or receive optical digital signals directly from an optical digital signal link of an intrapersonal data communication system.

FIG. 4C illustrates a block diagram representing a local device having a signal converter 400 within the local device, and a duplex/bi-directional optical digital signal link 402 according to some embodiments. The local device having the signal converter 400 can be configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals and to couple with the optical digital signal link 402 and to perform bi-directional signal communication across a single optical waveguide 418. The configuration illustrated in FIG. 4C can be utilized where bi-directional communication is desirable and where the local device is configured to transmit and receive optical digital signals.

The configurations illustrated in FIGS. 4A-C have some similarities including digital signal lines; power and return lines; redundant power and return lines; connectors 424; fiber optic transmitters, receivers, and transceivers 410 and 412; multiplexors and demultiplexors 406 and 408; non-contact optical connectors 422 and 423; and optical fibers 418. In FIGS. 4A-C, electrical digital signals are represented by the lines labeled DOUTn or DINn, where n is a number such as 1, 2, 3, or 4. In FIGS. 4A-C, four each of electrical digital signal input and output lines are listed. In some embodiments, the number of electrical digital signal input lines is less than four and may be zero, or may be more than four. In some embodiments, the number of electrical digital signal output lines is less than four and may be zero, or may be more than four. For example, there can be a signal digital output line and no digital input lines. For example, there can be a plurality of digital output lines and no digital input lines. For example, there can be one or more digital input lines and no digital output lines. The references to PWR, RTN, REDPWR, and REDRTN lines in FIGS. 4A-C correspond to power, return, redundant power, and redundant return lines. In some embodiments, there are no redundant power and/or redundant return lines. In some embodiments, there are more redundant power and/or redundant return lines.

In some embodiments, the optical fiber link may be bi-directional or multimode, in which case the adapter 401 or local device interface 400 can include transmitter and receiver components coupled with suitably coated optical elements for separating and combining the transmitted and received optical signals.

In some embodiments, the digital output lines (DOUTn) can be passed through a multiplexor component 406 to multiplex the output electrical digital signals. In some embodiments, there is no multiplexor. The multiplexed electrical digital signal can be passed to a fiber optic transmitter 410. The fiber optic transmitter 410 can be configured to convert an electrical digital signal into a corresponding optical digital signal. The fiber optic transmitter 410 can convert electrical signals to optical signals using appropriate techniques, such as, for example, by outputting an optical signal proportional to the input electrical current. The fiber optic transmitter 410 can be any suitable component for converting electrical digital signals to optical digital signals, such as, for example, HXT4101A-DNT manufactured by GigOptix, Inc. of San Jose, Calif. The output of the fiber optic transmitter 410 is an optical digital signal 414 that can be coupled to a collimating lens 420. In some embodiments, the electrical digital signal can be converted to an optical digital signal by fiber optic transmitter 410 and subsequently passed through multiplexor component 406 configured to multiplex optical signals.

In some embodiments, an input optical digital signal passes through a focusing lens 421 configured to substantially focus a collimated optical signal onto a fiber optic receiver 412. The focused optical digital signal 416 can be substantially directed and focused onto a fiber optic receiver 412 configured to convert an optical digital signal into a corresponding electrical digital signal. The fiber optic receiver 412 can convert optical signals to electrical signals using any appropriate technique such as, for example, outputting an electrical current that is proportional to the input power of the optical signal. The fiber optic receiver can be any suitable component for converting optical digital signals to electrical digital signals, such as, for example HXR-4101A-DNT-T manufactured by GigOptix, Inc. of San Jose, Calif. The converted electrical digital signal can be passed through a demultiplexor component 408 configured to demultiplex electrical digital signals. The demultiplexor component 408 can be configured to couple the electrical digital signals to the digital input lines (DINn). In some embodiments, there is no demultiplexor component 408. In some embodiments, the demultiplexor component 408 can be configured to receive the optical signal 416 and demultiplex the optical digital signal 416 before being converted into an electrical digital signal.

In some embodiments, such as embodiments described with respect to FIGS. 4C and 6B, a single optical fiber carries both input and output optical digital signals utilizing suitable techniques such as, for example, wavelength division multiplexing. Output and input optical digital signals can be directed to suitable components for multiplexing, demultiplexing, and conversion to corresponding electrical digital signals.

Non-Contact Optical Connection to Optical Digital Signal Link

FIGS. 4A-C show a representation of a non-contact optical connection between optical digital signal link 402 and connector interface 400 or signal converter 401, respectively. Output optical digital signal 414 can be collimated by collimating lens 420. The collimated optical signal passes through an output gap 422 before passing through a focusing lens 426 and being coupled with optical fiber 418. Input optical digital signal passes through optical fiber 418 and can be coupled with collimating lens 427. The collimated optical signal passes through an input gap 423 before being focused by focusing lens 421. In some embodiments, the output and input gaps 422 and 423 can be about 1 mm between lens elements. In some embodiments, the gaps 422 and 423 may be greater than or equal to about 2 mm, less than or equal to about 1 mm, about 0.5 mm, or about 1.5 mm. In some embodiments, the gaps 422 and 423 can have differing distances between lens elements, such as, for example, there can be about 1.5 mm between lens elements 420 and 426 in output gap 422 and there can be about 0.8 mm between lens elements 421 and 427 in input gap 423. In some embodiments, the non-contact optical connection can include transparent windows 428 and 429 that are configured to have an exterior surface that is substantially aligned with an exterior surface of the adapter 401 or electrical connector 400. The transparent windows 428 and 429 can be configured to be substantially transmissive for wavelengths that correspond to wavelengths of light used in the fiber optics 418. The transparent windows 428 and 429 can be treated with coatings to make them more durable, scratch resistant, hydrophobic, polarized, filtered, and the like. The transparent windows 428 and 429 can provide a protective surface for the lens elements 420, 421, 426 and 427. The transparent windows 428 and 429 can provide a surface that is cleaned with relative ease to maintain optical coupling between components of the intrapersonal data communication system.

In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 402 can be configured to connect to power and return lines through corresponding connector elements 424 and 425. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 402 can be configured to connect to redundant power and/or redundant return lines. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal link 402 can be configured to carry optical digital signals and not power and/or return lines.

Example Optical Signal Cables with an Optical Digital Signal Bridge

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram representing an optical digital signal bridge 500 a and 500 b having a non-contact optical connector 512 according to some embodiments. The optical digital signal bridge formed by complementary bridge components 500 a and 500 b can be configured to optically and electrically couple two segments of an optical signal cable 502 a and 502 b. The non-contact optical connection includes non-contact connector assemblies 500 a and 500 b, input and output lines 503, connector pins 504, alignment mechanisms 506, and one or more non-contact optical connectors 512 including optical elements 508, transparent windows 509, and one or more input/output signal gaps 510. In some embodiments, the non-contact optical connectors 512 include a lens and a transparent window 509 (where “transparent” can mean that the transparent element is substantially transmissive to one or more frequencies of electromagnetic radiation used in the fiber optic signal cables), configured to abut or be adjacent to a transparent element of a complementary non-contact optical connector 512. The transparent windows 509 can have a planar surface that is exposed when the non-contact optical connectors are not connected. The planar surface can be useful to create a surface that is cleaned in a relatively easy manner and to establish a connection surface to facilitate aligning the non-contact optical connectors 512. The non-contact optical connectors 512 can be configured to maintain an optical connection when misaligned due to a lateral displacement and/or an angular misalignment. For example, the non-contact optical connection between signal cables 502 a and 502 b can be maintained where the non-contact optical connectors 512 are laterally displaced by less than or equal to about 5 mm, less than or equal to about 4 mm, less than or equal to about 3 mm, less than or equal to about 2 mm, less than or equal to about 1 mm, less than or equal to about 0.5 mm, and/or less than or equal to about 0.4 mm. The non-contact optical connection between signal cables 502 a and 502 b can be maintained where the non-contact optical connectors 512 are angularly misaligned by less than or equal to about 5 degrees, less than or equal to about 4 degrees, less than or equal to about 3 degrees, less than or equal to about 2 degrees, less than or equal to about 1 degrees, less than or equal to about 0.5 degrees, and/or less than or equal to about 0.4 degrees. Some example embodiments of non-contact optical connectors are described herein with reference to FIGS. 2C, 2D, 3C, 3D, and 12-14.

Optical Signal Cables

Optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b include input and output lines 503 including one or more optical fibers configured to carry digital optical signals. Input and output lines 503 can include wires configured to carry one or more power and return lines. Optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b can include shielding elements to reduce electromagnetic interference. For example, optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b can include foil shielding including a thin layer of aluminum attached to a polyester carrier as well as insulation to protect against mechanical stress and substantially prevent electromagnetic interference. As another example, optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b can include braid shielding including a woven mesh of bare or tinned copper wires. As another example, optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b can include both foil and braid shielding. Optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b can include insulation to provide, for example, mechanical durability, thermal stability, electrical insulation, or any combination of these.

Input and output lines 503 can include one or more optical fibers. The one or more optical fibers can be configured to carry optical digital signals along the optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b. Input and output lines 503 can include wires configured to carry power and return voltages and currents. Input and output lines 503 can include wires configured to carry redundant power and return voltages and currents.

Optical Digital Signal Bridges

Optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b can include complementary optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b at corresponding proximal and/or distal ends. The optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b can be coupled to the optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b respectively using any suitable coupling element, such as, for example, adhesives, clamps, retaining members, crimping members, solder, or any combination of these. Optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b can include complementary electrical connector elements 504 configured to transmit power and return voltage and current between optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b. In some embodiments, optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b can include alignment mechanisms 506. The optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b can include one or more non-contact optical signal connectors 512 including lens elements 508, transparent windows 509, and input/output signal gaps 510. In some embodiments, optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b do not include mating connector pins 504, particularly in embodiments where optical signal cables 502 a and 502 b do not include power and return wires. In some embodiments, optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b do not include alignment mechanisms 506, particularly in embodiments where optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b include mating connector pins 504 which can be configured to align optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b. In some embodiments, optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b can be a part of a headgear system, mount interface, and the like such that the cables 502 a and 502 b terminate at these structures so as to be integral to the associated structure or device.

Alignment mechanisms 506 can be configured to substantially align the one or more non-contact optical connectors 512. The alignment mechanisms 506 can include physical elements configured to substantially secure the non-contact connector assemblies 500 a and 500 b such that the non-contact optical connectors 512 are substantially aligned. The alignment mechanisms 506 can accomplish the substantial alignment utilizing any suitable technique such as, for example, mating physical elements such as one or more cones or pegs to one or more cone or peg receptacle elements, or locking mechanisms associated with a structure of which it is an integral part. Alignment mechanisms 506 can include locking elements to substantially secure the non-contact connector assemblies 500 a and 500 b in contact with one another. Alignment mechanisms 506 can include mating elements that exert frictional forces on such that the non-contact connector assemblies 500 a and 500 b remain substantially aligned. The optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b can be considered to be substantially aligned when the optical signal traverses the non-contact optical connectors 512 without substantial degradation in signal quality such that there is no significant loss of information across the connectors 512.

Non-Contact Optical Connectors

The optical digital signal bridges 500 a and 500 b include one or more non-contact optical connectors 512 configured to transmit optical signals across a gap without mating or interlocking components. A non-contact optical connector 512 includes lens elements 508, transparent windows 509, and an input/output signal gap 510. An optical signal emerging from an optical fiber encounters a lens element 508 configured to substantially collimate the optical signal. The collimated optical signal passes through a signal gap 510 and encounters a lens element 508 configured to substantially focus the optical signal and couple it to an optical fiber. Coupling the optical signal to the lens elements 508 can be accomplished through any suitable optical element or combination of elements, such as, for example, physical proximity, optical gels, adhesives, prisms, diffraction gratings, waveguides, mirrors, or any combination of these. In some embodiments, the signal gap 510 includes one or more transparent windows 509 having a planar exterior surface. The exterior surface can be the surface that is adjacent to or abuts with a complementary non-contact optical connector.

The one or more input/output signal gaps 510 can be about 1 mm between corresponding lens elements 508. In some embodiments, the signal gaps 510 can be about 2 mm long, between about 1 mm and 2 mm long, between about 0.5 mm and 3 mm long, less than or equal to about 0.5 mm long, or greater than or equal to 3 mm long.

The lens elements 508 can include any suitable material such as, for example, diamond, sapphire, glass, polymer/acrylic, polycarbonate, similar materials, or any combination of these. Materials such as diamond or sapphire may be advantageous because of their durability (e.g., their resistance to scratches or abrasions), optical quality, and cost-effective characteristics given the small size desired (e.g., small size requirements make it so that the difference in cost of these materials is acceptable given the other qualities they possess).

The combination of signal gap 510 and/or transparent windows 509 and lens elements 508 can be configured to facilitate maintenance of the optical connection between optical cables 502 a and 502 b. The lens elements 508 or transparent elements (illustrated in Appendix A) can be protected due at least in part to the transparent windows 509. In some embodiments, the transparent windows 509 form an exterior surface that is substantially co-planar with the connector with which it is associated. Thus, the transparent windows 509 can be easily cleaned by wiping or otherwise clearing debris or other contaminants from the planar surface of the transparent window 509, thereby keeping the optical connection intact. The lens elements 508 and/or transparent windows 509 can also be treated with coatings designed to increase their resistance to abrasions, scratches, condensation, signal loss, and the like. The output power of the optical signal can also be tuned to compensate for possible signal loss across the non-contact optical connectors 512. Because the signal is digital and not analog, a substantial loss of intensity of the optical signal across the non-contact optical connectors 512 may not necessarily result in a significant loss of information. Thus, the non-contact optical connection is robust and facilitates the maintenance of a signal across the system.

Example Communication System Interlink

FIG. 6A illustrates a block diagram representing an example intrapersonal data communication system from a visualization system to a data processing system. FIG. 6B illustrates a block diagram representing an example duplex/bi-directional intrapersonal data communication system between a visualization system and a data processing system. Within a visualization system, video processing electricals 602 produce an electrical digital signal which can be transmitted to a fiber optic transmitter 604. The fiber optic transmitter 604 can convert the electrical digital signal to an optical digital signal utilizing a radiation source 606 such as, for example, a VCSEL. The optical digital signal can be coupled to an optical fiber 610 through a suitable optical component 608, such as a lens. The optical fiber carries the optical digital signal until it reaches the mounting hardware securing the visualization system to the headgear system. The optical signal can be transmitted from the visualization system to the optical fiber 610 within the mounting hardware through a non-contact optical connector 618. Non-contact optical connector 618 includes a plurality of optical components 608 with a gap of air or other fluid between them. Similar non-contact optical connections can occur between the mounting hardware and the headgear system, and the headgear system and the data processing system. The optical digital signal can be coupled to a photodetector 612, such as a photodiode. The photodetector 612 can convert the optical signal into an electrical signal, which is translated into a corresponding electrical digital signal in a fiber optic receiver 614. The electrical digital signal can be communicated to the video processing electricals 616 housed by the data processing system.

In some embodiments, the fiber optic transmitter 604 and the radiation source 606 can be external to the visualization system and can be located, for example, in an adapter or signal converter, or in the mounting hardware, or in the headgear system. In some embodiments, the photodetector 612 and fiber optic receiver 614 are external to the data processing system and can be located, for example, in an adapter or signal converter, or in the mounting hardware, or in the headgear system.

In some embodiments, the video processing electricals include one or more hardware processors, memory, and/or other such components for processing video or image information, processing location information, displaying video or images, displaying images and textual information, displaying video and textual information with graphical overlays, or the like. For example, the video processing electricals of the visualization system can be capable of displaying a video feed of real time thermal information with objects of interest distinguished using a graphical overlay provided by the data processing system and textual information communicated from the data processing system. In another example, the video processing electricals of the visualization system can be configured to display real-time video corresponding to an image-intensified view, combined image intensified and thermal, or other combined/fused multi-sensor view of a scene with a portion of that video being overlaid with other alphanumeric or icon data, or a map with the location of persons or objects of interest being indicated on said map as provided by the data processing system. In another example, the visualization system can be configured to display a real-time video feed of a telescopic view of a scene with textual information relating to distances to objects of interest as provided by the data processing system overlaid on the video feed. The visualization system and data processing system can be configured to display other such information to the user and the capabilities of the system are not limited or completely described by the examples provided above.

Power and Bandwidth

The communication represented by the block diagrams in FIGS. 6A and 6B can be accomplished consuming less than or equal to about 500 mW of electrical power at real-time video data rates, and can be lower in other operational situations. In some embodiments, real-time video data rates can be sustained consuming less than or equal to about 200 mW, less than or equal to about 100 mW, or less than or equal to about 50 mW. The power can be provided by a power source within the data processing system, or the visualization system, or by an external power source.

The bandwidth between the visualization system and the data processing system can be less than or equal to about 10 Gbps enabling real-time (i.e., no or low-latency) high-resolution video processing. In some situations the bandwidth can be reduced to a few kbps in modes where system synchronization or sensor status information is being provided to the data processor rather than real-time video from the visualization system. The bandwidth can be tuned to consume lower power by selective video window sampling, reduced data update rate, very low latency JPEG compression of video, or other techniques to reduce power consumption of the fiber optic transmitter and receiver components 604 and 614, respectively, as well as reducing data processor power draw, while still meeting operational needs of the user. In some embodiments, less than or equal to about 50 mW of electrical power to the communication system can enable the system to provide less than or equal to about 2 Gbps of bandwidth. For example, the HXT4101A-DNT fiber optic transmitter provided by GigOptix, Inc. is capable of 14 Gbps communication, but will provide about 2 Gbps when supplied with about 50 mW of electrical power. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to move to operational modes that lower the bandwidth requirement of the system to reduce power because lower power enables the overall system to operate for longer periods of time on battery power. Reducing the power provided to the system may reduce the available bandwidth to the communication system but still may be sufficient for the communication needs of the system. For example, in embodiments where between about 20 mW and 30 mW is provided to the communication system, about 1 Gb/s to 2 Gb/s throughput can be achieved which can be sufficient for real time processing and display of information and selectively windowed video plus other data sources.

The power delivered to the communication system can be adjusted to account for signal strength across the communication system. Optical signal strength can be affected by loss of signal across non-contact optical connectors. In some embodiments, the power supplied to the communication system can be adjusted to account for signal strength. For example, if information is lost over the communication system, power to the fiber optic transmitter, the fiber optic receiver, or both can be increased such that the amount of information lost over the communication path due to signal loss is reduced to acceptable levels. In another example, if the loss of information is already below acceptable levels the power provided to the fiber optic transmitter, the fiber optic receiver, or both can be reduced until the loss of information is approximately at or below acceptable levels. In some embodiments, the data processing system, the visualization system, or both are configured to determine the amount of information loss over the communication system. The power output to the communication system can be altered according to the analysis provided by the visualization system, the data processing system, or both. In some embodiments, the amount of power provided to the communication system is determined by the user. In some embodiments, the amount of power provided to the communication system is determined by an external parameter or input.

The power delivered to the communication system can be adjusted according to power management parameters. For example, the communication system can be commanded to enter a low power consumption mode whereby the amount of power consumed by the system is reduced. The communication system can be commanded to enter a high power consumption mode whereby the amount of power is increased. The communication system can be commanded to enter into a specific mode whereby the power consumed is within a defined range. The command to enter a power consumption mode can be made by a user, an external communication command delivered to the communication system, as a result of conditions being met within the system, or any combination of these.

The power delivered to the communication system can be adjusted according to bandwidth parameters. In some embodiments, the available bandwidth across the intrapersonal data communication system corresponds to the power delivered to the system. The power can be adjusted to account for differing bandwidth desires. For example, during instances where the quantity of information to be passed over the communication link exceeds a threshold, the power provided to the system may be increased. Similarly, in instances where the quantity of information to be passed does not exceed a threshold, the power provided to the system may be reduced. In some embodiments, the power provided to the system may be scaled according to a desired bandwidth. The desired bandwidth may be input by the user, may be determined by a program internal to the communication system, may be set by a command from an external communication, or any combination of these.

Example Intrapersonal Data Communication Methods

FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart of an example method 700 of transmitting information from a visualization system to a data processing system. The method 700 includes receiving information from a visualization system as stated in operational block 702. Information from the visualization system can include information such as, for example, thermal image information, a thermal video feed, image intensified information, telescopic visual information, visualization system line of sight pointing information, system status information, simulated visual information, video information from a camera, or any combination of these.

Information provided by the visualization system is encoded into an electrical digital signal in operational block 704. The step of encoding the information can include processes such as, for example, converting analog information into digital information, compressing digital information such as video or image data, encapsulating information within appropriate digital packets, modifying digital information to conform to a specific I/O protocol, multiplexing multiple digital signals into a single digital signal, or any combination of these.

Operational block 706 indicates that the electrical digital information can be converted into an optical digital signal. Converting an electrical digital signal can include processes such as, for example, producing an intensity of radiation in proportion to the input current or voltage of the electrical signal; producing a first intensity of radiation when the input electrical signal exceeds a threshold, and a second intensity of radiation when it does not; converting multiple electrical digital signals into multiple optical signals and multiplexing the optical signals using a technique such as wavelength division multiplexing; or any combination of these. The conversion of electrical digital information to optical digital information can be performed within the visualization or data processing systems as described herein in relation to FIGS. 4B and 4C, or some embodiments as described herein in relation to FIGS. 6A and 6B, or within a component such as an adapter or signal converter as described herein in relation to FIGS. 4A and 6A.

Optical digital information can be coupled to an optical digital signal link in operational block 708. Coupling the optical signal to the optical digital signal link can be accomplished through any appropriate optical element, such as, for example, physically contacting an optical fiber to the radiation source, utilizing one or more lenses to focus the optical signal into an optical fiber or waveguide, utilizing an optical gel or similar substance to optically couple the radiation source to the waveguide or optical fiber, or any combination of these Coupling the radiation source to a waveguide or optical fiber can be accomplished using a non-contact optical connection such as those described herein in relation to FIG. 4A, 4B, 4C or 5.

The optical signal can be transmitted over an optical digital signal link in operational block 710. Transmission across an optical digital signal link can include transmitting the optical signal across one or more optical digital signal bridges having non-contact optical connectors. In some embodiments, one or more optical digital signal bridges can be traversed between a visualization system and a data processing system. The optical digital signal bridges can be similar to those described herein with reference to FIG. 4A, 4B, 4C or 5.

Operational block 712 indicates that the optical signal can be coupled to a signal converter or optical digital signal adapter. The signal converter can be configured to convert an optical digital signal into an electrical digital signal. The signal converter can be a separate component, as described herein in relation to FIG. 4A, or can be integral to a visualization system or data processing system, as described herein in relation to FIGS. 4B and 4C. The signal converter can include a fiber optic receiver and associated electricals. Coupling the optical signal to the signal converter can be accomplished by any appropriate technique, such as those described herein.

The optical signal can be converted into an electrical digital signal in operational block 714. Converting an optical digital signal into an electrical digital signal can include processes such as, for example, detecting a quantity of radiation from an optical fiber or waveguide and producing an electrical voltage or current in proportion to the quantity of radiation, producing one electrical voltage or current if the detected radiation exceeds a threshold and a second electrical voltage or current if it does not, demultiplexing a multiplexed optical signal, or any combination of these. The optical digital signal can then be transmitted across an optical signal cable.

The electrical digital signal can be decoded in operational block 716. Decoding the electrical signal can include processes such as, for example, demultiplexing the electrical digital signal, converting digital information into analog information, decompressing digital information such as video or image data, compressing digital information, interpreting encapsulated information within digital packets, modifying digital information to conform to a specific I/O protocol, or any combination of these.

Information can be processed by a data processing system in operational block 718. Processing information from the visualization system can include, for example, locating objects of interest within image or video information, calculating temperatures ranges within an infrared image or video feed, visually enhancing the imagery for redisplay to the user or transmission, processing video and other data from the visualization system with data from other external sensors to determine respective pointing positions, analyzing the information for distances to objects or persons, calculating the position and orientation of the visualization system, or any combination of these. The data processing system can include one or more hardware processors and memory. The data processing system can include a power source. The data processing system can be configured to process information from, for example, one or more visualization systems, external communications systems, external video sensors, external system line of sight sensor data, GPS systems, external system synchronization signals, environmental information from sensors, user input, user commands, or any combination of these.

Example Intrapersonal Data Communication System Components

FIG. 8 illustrates mounting hardware 800 configured to secure a visualization system to a headgear system according to some embodiments. For example, the mounting hardware 800 can connect a thermal imaging goggle or multi-sensor imaging goggle to a helmet, a night-vision camera to a hat, and so forth. The mounting hardware includes a non-contact optical connector 802, optical digital signal links 804 a and 804 b, an optical digital signal bridge 806, and a connector interface 808.

The non-contact optical connection 802 can be configured to transmit an optical digital signal from optical digital signal link 804 a to optical digital signal link 804 b. In some embodiments, the non-contact optical connection 802 connects at least one power and one return line between optical digital signal links 804 a and 804 b. The non-contact optical connector 802 can be similar to those connectors described herein with reference to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 5.

Optical digital signal bridge 806 can be configured to transmit an optical digital signal from a visualization system to cable 804 a. The optical digital signal bridge 806 can be configured to mate with the mounting hardware 800 or can be an integral part of the mounting hardware 800. The optical digital signal bridge 806 can be attached to the mounting hardware 800 by any appropriate connector such as, for example, adhesion, magnets, screws, bolts, rivets, or any combination of these. In some embodiments, the optical digital signal bridge 806 is instead an optical digital signal adapter where the visualization system is configured to send and receive electrical digital signals.

The connector interface 808 can be configured to releasably couple with the corresponding connector on the visualization system. The connector interface 808 can be integrally formed with the mounting hardware 800 or can be a separate component. The connector interface can be attached to the mounting hardware 800 by any appropriate technique, such as one or more of those described herein.

Example Intrapersonal Data Communication System in a Headgear System

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an example intrapersonal data communication system 900 mounted on a helmet 910 with a visualization system 906 and a data processing system 908. The system 900 can include a mounting bracket 912, optical digital signal link 904, and optical digital signal bridges or adapters 902 a, 902 b, and 902 c. The visualization system 906 can include a thermal imaging camera, ultraviolet (UV) camera, visible band camera, near infrared (NIR) camera, short wave infrared (SWIM) camera, display, image intensifier tube based sensor mounted to the headgear system or incorporated in a goggle for use during the day or at night, EBAPS, telescopic goggle, or the like. The data processing system 908 can include items such as, for example, a battery pack, a data/image computation module, external sensor interfaces, external communication system, or any combination of these.

The optical digital signal bridge 902 a connects a segment of the optical digital signal link 904 in the mount bracket 912 to a segment of the optical digital signal link 904 in the helmet 910. The optical digital signal bridge or adapter 902 b connects the segment of the optical digital signal link 904 in the mount bracket 912 to the visualization system 906. The optical digital signal bridge or adapter 902 c connects the segment of the optical digital signal link 904 in the helmet 910 to the data processing system 908. The optical digital signal bridges or adapters 902 a-c can include one or more optical fibers. The optical digital signal bridges or adapters 902 a-c can include one or more power and return lines. The optical digital signal link 904 can be located between the exterior shell of the helmet 910 and the user's skull, between the exterior shell and inner padding of the helmet 910, it can be located along a periphery of the helmet 910, or along an exterior of the helmet 910.

Example Method of Manufacturing an Intrapersonal Data Communication System

FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of an example method 1000 of preparing a headgear system for being fitted with an intrapersonal data communication system that includes an EMI-resistant optical signal cable. A headgear system is provided in operational block 1002. A headgear system can include items such as, for example, a helmet, cap, eyewear system with ear stems with resilient member, hat, head band, or any combination of these. The headgear system is modified in operational block 1004. Modifying the headgear system can include processes such as, for example, clipping on retainer members for supporting an cable; forming a route from the visualization system to the data processing system for the cable; creating a hole in the headgear system for the cable to pass through; mounting a clip or bracket onto the headgear system for the visualization system, the data processing system, or both; or any combination of these. Operational block 1006 includes putting the interference-resistant cable in the headgear system. This step can include processes such as, for example, pushing the cable into a narrow cavity where the cable can be secured in place by a friction fit retainer; placing the cable into clipping members; using adhesives to secure the cable to the interior of the headgear system; passing the cable through a tube integrated into the headgear system during the step in operational block 1004; pulling the cable through a hole created in the headgear system; or any combination of these.

Example Intrapersonal Data Communication System Including an External Visualization System

FIG. 11 is a representation of some embodiments of an intrapersonal data communication system including a visualization system 1106 external to the headgear system 1100. A first visualization system 1102 can be provided that can be configured to communicate with a data processing system 1104 via an optical digital signal link 1108 a according to the descriptions set forth herein. A second visualization system 1106 can be configured to communicate with the data processing system 1104 via an optical digital signal link 1108 b according to the descriptions set forth herein. Optical digital signal bridges or adapters can be configured to connect the optical digital signals between the components as described herein. In some embodiments, the second visualization system 1106 can be connected to the data processing system by a suitable short-range, low-power, and/or high-bandwidth wireless link.

The second visualization system 1106 can include items such as, for example, a firearm, thermal imaging sight, CMOS video sight, multi-imaging sensor weapon sight, digital magnetic compass, laser pointer, rangefinder, GPS, synchronization signal generation, flashlight, command from user controls, a wireless communication system, or any combination of these. The second visualization system 1106 can be external to the headgear system. Information from the second visualization system 1106 can be combined with information from the data processing system 1104, first visualization system 1102, and data processing system derived video images; and the combined data can be relayed to the first visualization system 1102 to display to the user. In some embodiments, the information from the second visualization system 1106 can include information such as, for example, position and orientation of the visualization system line of sight (LOS), angular rates of the LOS, system synchronization signals, system operational state and environmental data, ballistics related data, or any combination of these.

Example Helmet Mount with Non-Contact Optical Connectors

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of an example embodiment of a helmet mount 1204 incorporating optical and electrical connectors 1210 on a helmet 1202. The helmet mount 1204 can be secured to the helmet using a hook system 1206 and a strap 1208 which pulls the helmet mount 1204 so that the hook system 1206 applies a force on the helmet 1202 which substantially secures the helmet mount 1204 in place on the helmet 1202. The helmet mount can include features 1220 configured to mate to a corresponding mount for a visualization system (not shown), such as a night vision goggle, such that the mount for the visualization system can be secured to the helmet 1202 through the interface of the features 1220 on the helmet mount 1204 and features on the visualization system mount.

The helmet mount 1204 includes optical and electrical connectors 1210 configured to mate to corresponding optical and electrical connectors on the visualization system mount. When the visualization system is mounted to the helmet 1202 using the helmet mount 1204, the visualization system can send and/or receive optical digital signals through the optical connectors 1211 and 1212 that couple the optical signals to a fiber optic link that connects devices on an intrapersonal data communication system (not shown) on the helmet 1202. Furthermore, the visualization system can send and/or receive electrical power and/or electrical signals through the electrical connectors 1213, 1214, 1215, and 1216 that electrically couple the visualization system to electrical lines on the intrapersonal data communication system on the helmet 1202.

FIG. 13 illustrates the example helmet mount 1204 from FIG. 12 to show the optical and electrical connectors 1210. The optical connectors 1211 and 1212 can be non-contact optical connectors, as described herein. For example, the optical connectors 1211 and 1212 can include a lens system configured to collimate (or focus) optical signals exiting (or entering) an optical fiber and a transparent window configured to provide a surface that protects the fiber optic and lens system and is compatible with a corresponding surface on a non-contact optical connector on the visualization system mount. The electrical connectors 1213-1216 can be any suitable electrical connector configured to transmit electrical power and/or electrical signals. For example, the electrical connectors 1213-1216 can comprise a spring-mounted plunger that electrically couples to a conductive surface on the visualization system mount.

FIG. 14 illustrates the optical and electrical connectors 1210 from the example helmet mount 1204 in FIG. 12. A fiber optic cable 1218 is also illustrated to show an example of routing an optical signal from the non-contact optical connector 1211 through the helmet mount 1204. The fiber optic cable 1218 can be part of the intrapersonal data communication system that connects one or more local devices on the helmet 1202. Similarly, another fiber optic cable (not shown) can connect the non-contact optical connector 1212 to the intrapersonal data communication system. Furthermore, the electrical connectors 1213-1216 can be coupled to electrical lines, such as wires, that connect to other local devices and/or to the intrapersonal data communication system.

Example Personal Equipment System with a Wireless Communication System

Personal equipment systems can be configured to wirelessly communicate with other personal equipment systems, local devices, and/or external systems to obtain or provide data for presentation of overall situational awareness or overall systems status to the user, allow the user to command and control multiple personal equipment systems, and to facilitate and streamline diagnostic procedures, maintenance, and data communication between systems. Wireless communication can be achieved using light-weight, low-power, short-range wireless systems and protocols. To be suited for practical use when away from convenient recharging stations, a communication system that consumes a relatively low amount of power can be advantageous. Considering mobility, a wireless communication system advantageously can be relatively light-weight and of a small form factor, in addition to consuming a relatively low amount of power. Systems that are to be used in harsh environments, e.g., being exposed to rain, snow, liquid, extreme changes in altitude, and wide variations in temperature, can be advantageously designed to reduce the number of connectors so that electrical components are shielded from the environment and physical stresses thereby reducing possible sources of failure. Furthermore, the process of connecting and disconnecting cables to multiple systems for communication, maintenance, or running diagnostics can be time- and labor-intensive as well as inflicting strain and wear on the systems. However, in systems containing software and firmware it is advantageous to be able to access the operating system, firmware, software, and programs to verify operational status and perform updates or upgrades. Therefore, in some embodiments, a wireless communications system to be used for system command, system control, data presentation to the user, messaging, and to support maintenance and diagnostics of the system can be embedded within a personal equipment system, such as a headgear or other system, that uses relatively low power, that is light-weight and of a small form factor.

A wireless data communication, maintenance, and diagnostic system can include the hardware necessary to establish a wireless connection between an intrapersonal communication system connected to one or more local devices and an external system, such as a computer, radio, firearm, weapon, telephone, smartphone, tablet, PDA, or other electrical device. Some embodiments of the wireless data communication, maintenance, and diagnostic system provide for a wireless communication system associated with a local device, such as a visualization system generally described herein with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D, 2A, and 2C. In some embodiments, the wireless communication system can be associated with a data processing system generally described herein with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D, 3A, and 3C. In some embodiments, the wireless communication system comprises multiple components distributed in the personal equipment system and is not associated with a particular local device. In some embodiments, the wireless communication system is a separate and distinct hardware module and does not have any components within a local device.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram representing a personal equipment system 1500 having an optical intrapersonal communication system and two local devices, a visualization system 1506 and a data processing system 1508. As more fully described herein, the optical intrapersonal communication system 1502 can be configured to provide an optical digital signal link between local devices. The optical digital signal link can include a wired communication link that includes one or more optical fibers for transmitting and receiving optical digital signals. The visualization system 1506 and the data processing system 1508 can be configured to communicate via the optical intrapersonal communication system 1502. The visualization system 1506 and data processing system 1508 are more fully described herein with reference to FIGS. 1A-1D, 2A, 2C, 3A, and 3C.

The personal equipment system 1500 includes a wireless communication system 1504. The wireless communication system 1504 can be configured to provide a wireless bridge between the fiber optic or wired connection within the personal equipment system and external local devices and systems. External local devices include local devices that are not connected with wires to local devices in the personal equipment system 1500 and can include local devices that are, for example, in the user's pocket, in a backpack, on a belt, attached to a shoe, worn on the wrist, attached to the clothing, on a firearm, situated within communication range, held in the hand of another person, or any combination of these. For example, the visualization system 1506 can be configured to display information received from an external local device through the wireless communication system 1504, such as visual information from a weapon site that has no wired connection to the visualization system 1506. As another example, an external system, such as a laptop or tablet computer, can be configured to receive information from the data processing system 1508 through the use of the wireless communication system 1504. Thus, the wireless communication system 1504 can be configured to establish wireless connections to external local devices and external systems thereby allowing these local devices and systems access to the functionality within the personal equipment system 1500 and its wired network of local devices.

For example, the wireless system 1504 can establish a wireless connection with a range finder such that the information from the range finder is displayed to the user through the visualization system 1506. As another example, a diagnostic system on a laptop or other computer can request and receive information from the data processing system 1508 without the need to establish a wired connection. In another example, munitions can be configured to receive signals from the wireless system 1504 such that upon receiving a signal from the system 1504 the munitions activate, such as a mine, grenade or other explosive detonating.

The wireless communication system 1504 can include a user interface element 1510. The user interface element 1510 can be configured to allow a user to control the wireless communication system 1504. The user interface element 1510 can be configured to allow the user to control the wireless communication system 1504, for example, by turning it on and/or off, putting it into a connect or disconnect mode, making it discoverable, making it search for external systems with which to connect, activating a wireless connection, deactivating the system, or any combination of these. The user interface 1510 can be a physical feature associated with the personal equipment system 1500, such as, for example, a button, toggle, switch, touch interface, knob, wheel, slide, any mechanical element suitable for controlling the wireless communication system 1504, any electrical element suitable for allowing a user to control the wireless communication system 1504, or any combination of mechanical and/or electrical elements.

Example Wireless Communication System

FIG. 16 shows a block diagram of some embodiments of the wireless communication system 1504. The wireless communication system 1504 can be configured to transmit and receive signals from an external system or external local device. The wireless communication system 1504 can be configured to communicate received signals from an external system to one or more local devices. The wireless system 1504 can be configured to communicate with devices that are within a designated range, such as, for example, 50 ft., 20 ft., 10 ft., 10 m, 5 m, 2 m, within arm's reach, within sight, within the range of a firearm, within throwing range, and so forth. The wireless system 1504 can be configured to utilize any suitable short range communication protocol. As described herein below, the wireless communication system 1504 can be configured to provide a wireless bridge between external systems and local devices associated with the personal equipment system 1500.

The wireless system 1504 can include one or more antennas 1602. In some embodiments, the antennas 1602 are configured for both reception and transmission of signals. In some embodiments, the antennas 1602 are configured for receiving and not transmitting signals. In some embodiments, the system 1504 has a different number of transmitting antennas than receiving antennas. The antennas 1602 can be electrically coupled to a transceiver 1604. The transceiver can be electrically coupled to a primary processor 1606.

In some embodiments, the antenna 1602 transmits and receives RF signals according to the IEEE 802.11 standard, including IEEE 802.11(a), (b), (g), or (n). In some embodiments, the antenna 1602 transmits and receives RF signals according to BLUETOOTH™ Specification Version 3.0+HS adopted in 2009. In some implementations the antenna 1602 transmits and receives CDMA, GSM, AMPS or other known signals that are used to communicate within a wireless cell phone network. The transceiver 1604 pre-processes the signals received from the antenna 1602 so that they may be received and further manipulated by the primary processor 1606. The transceiver 1604 also processes signals received from the primary processor 1606 so that they may be transmitted from the system 1604 via the antenna 1602.

The system 1504 can include both a primary processor 1606 and a secondary processor 1608. When the wireless communication system 1504 receives signals, the primary processor 1606 can include mechanisms for processing the received signals prior to encoding in the protocol/encoding engine 1610. The secondary processor 1608 can include mechanisms for processing the filtered communication signal. When the wireless communication system 1504 transmits rather than receives signals, the secondary processor 1608 can include mechanisms for processing signals to be transmitted prior to encoding in the protocol/encoding engine 1610, and the primary processor 1606 can typically include mechanisms for processing the signal to be transmitted. The primary and secondary processors 1606, 1608 can include modules for analog gain control; spatial, temporal, or frequency-based filtering, such as band-pass or halfband filtering; and/or performing a Fourier or inverse Fourier transform. The primary and secondary processors 1606, 1608 can include modules such as a demodulation module; a Fourier or inverse Fourier transform module; a decoder module for decoding signals coded using an error-corrective code such as a Hamming code, a convolutional code, a turbo code, or a low-density parity check (LDPC) code; a deinterleaving module; and a demultiplexer. The protocol/encoding engine 1610 can include modules for encrypting or decrypting communication, converting signals to conform to standard protocols, encoding or decoding signals according to proprietary protocols, and performing forward error correction.

The wireless communication system 1504 can also include a controller 1614 and a memory 1612. The controller 1614 can be used by any of the other components, such as the primary processor 1606, the protocol/encoding engine 1610, or the secondary processor 1608 to perform data calculations. As used herein, the term “processor” refers broadly to any suitable device, logical block, module, circuit, or combination of elements for executing instructions. The controller 1614 can be any conventional general purpose single- or multi-chip microprocessor such as a Pentium® processor, a MIPS® processor, a Power PC® processor, AMD® processor, or an ALPHA® processor. In addition, the controller 1614 can be any conventional special purpose microprocessor such as a digital signal processor. The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor, such as controller 1614 can be a conventional microprocessor, but the controller can be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. Controller 1614 can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

The memory 1612 can also be connected to the other components of the wireless communication system 1504, such as the primary processor 1606, the protocol/encoding engine 1610, the secondary processor 1608 and the microprocessor 1614. Memory refers to electronic circuitry that allows information, typically computer data, to be stored and retrieved. Memory can refer to external devices or systems, for example, disk drives or tape drives. Memory can also refer to fast semiconductor storage (chips), for example, Random Access Memory (RAM) or various forms of Read Only Memory (ROM), which are directly connected to the one or more processors of the system 1504. Other types of memory include bubble memory and core memory.

Some embodiments provide a wireless communication system 1504 where the power source provides less than or equal to about 50 mW of electric power to the system, less than or equal to about 500 mW of electric power, and/or less than or equal to about 1 W of electric power. Some embodiments provide a wireless communication system where the effective range of communication is less than or equal to about 2 m, less than or equal to about 5 m, less than or equal to about 10 m, and/or less than or equal to about 100 m.

The wireless communication system 1504 includes a user interface module 1616 coupled to the controller 1614. The user interface module 1616 can be configured to respond to actions by a user. For example, the user interface module 1616 can initiate a procedure to disconnect the wireless communication system 1504 when a designated button is pressed. The user interface module 1616 can be configured to change the state of the wireless communication system 1504 in response to input from a user interface element, like one described herein with reference to FIG. 15. For example, the wireless communication system 1504 can be turned off or on, the system 1504 can be instructed to become discoverable, the system 1504 can be put into a mode where it scans for available external systems, the system 1504 can be activated or deactivated, or any combination of these.

The wireless communication system 1504 can be configured to encrypt and decrypt data to maintain security. Another security measure can include configuring the system such that it communicates over relatively short ranges. As an example of another security measure, the system can be configured to be turned on and off through user input such that it is only on when the user specifies, and can be configured to turn off automatically after a designated duration.

Example Wireless Maintenance. Diagnostic, and Data Communication Systems

With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2C, a wireless maintenance, diagnostic, and communication system can include a wireless communication system that is embedded within a visualization system 200, e.g. a goggle. The antenna and associated components can be internal to the goggle 200. A user interface element 208 can be included on the body of the goggle 200 to al low the user to control the operational state of the wireless communication system. Similarly, with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C, the wireless communication system can be embedded within a data processing system 300 with a similar button, switch, toggle, touch interface, knob, slide, or other physical feature for changing the operational state of the wireless communication system. With reference to FIGS. 1B-1D, the wireless communication system can be incorporated into the headgear system 100, such as, for example, in the mount interface 102 a or 102 b, in the signal converter 116 a, 116 b, 116 c, the visualization system 110, the data processing system 112, or with components distributed among these various components of the headgear system 100.

Personal Equipment Systems Having Radios, Ultra Wideband Systems, and Wireless Communication Systems

Personal equipment systems can incorporate radios, ultra wideband (UWB) systems, and wireless communication systems. In some embodiments, the radios are long-range radios configured to communicate voice and data over relatively long distances. For example, the long-range radio can be configured to communicate over a distance of greater than or equal to about 100 m, greater than or equal to about 500 m, and/or greater than or equal to about 1000 m. This allows the user of the personal equipment system to communicate with systems and other people situated in remote locations. For example, the long-range radio can be a line of sight radio, wherein the radio can communicate with another compatible radio that is within the first radio's line of sight. As another example, the long-range radio can be a networking radio capable of communicating data and voice to remote locations that are not within the radio's line of sight. To accomplish non-line of sight communication, the long-range networking radio can be configured to relay signals to other radios within the first radio's network where each subsequent radio in the network relays the information transmitted by the first radio until the information reaches its ultimate destination. These types of long-range radios can reduce the power required to transmit information over long distances. Furthermore, these radios can increase the effective communication distance due to the ability to relay signals across multiple radios.

Personal equipment systems can incorporate UWB systems, configured to communicate information over a relatively short distance and with relatively high power and bandwidth. In some embodiments, a UWB system can be configured to communicate information over a distance of less than or equal to about 2 m, less than or equal to about 5 m, and/or less than or equal to about 10 m. The UWB system can be configured to communicate the information while consuming less than or equal to about 600 mW, less than or equal to about 1 W, and/or less than or equal to about 2 W. UWB systems can communicate a relatively large amount of information due to the relatively high power consumption, short effective communication distance, and large bandwidth. For example, UWB systems can be configured to receive video information from multiple sources from distances less than about 5 m. UWB systems can be configured to be relatively secure forms of communication because of the short effective communication distance and low detectability of the signal as it can be buried in the noise of the background electromagnetic radiation present in the environment. In some embodiments, UWB systems can be configured to provide intrapersonal communication within relatively short distances. However, UWB systems may consume more power than is practical for extended use in mobile systems.

As described more fully herein, personal equipment systems can include a relatively low-power, short-range wireless communication system configured to deliver information between local devices and external systems. Some embodiments provide for wireless communication systems capable of communicating with UWB systems, described herein above. For example, an external system can include a UWB system configured to deliver information over a particular RF band. The wireless communication system incorporated into a personal equipment system can be configured to receive this information such that a wireless bridge can be established between the external system and the personal equipment system. As a more particular example, a sighting system can include an UWB radio transmitting video and sensor information at 1 W from the sighting system. The wireless communication system of the personal equipment system can receive that information, process it using a data processing local device, and display a reticle or other symbol superimposed over the visual information presented to the user where the position of the reticle or other symbol as displayed to the user corresponds to the pointing location of the associated sighting system. In some embodiments, sensor data received from an external system can cause the personal equipment system to send a signal to the external system indicating that relatively high bandwidth information can be sent over the UWB system. In such a manner, power can be conserved because the UWB system, which consumes relatively high power, will only be used when commanded to do so.

In some embodiments, data other than video can be transmitted to the wireless communication system in the personal equipment system. For example, the wireless communication system can consume less than or equal to about 50 mW, less than or equal to about 100 mW, less than or equal to about 500 mW, and/or less than or equal to about 1 W while receiving less than or equal to about 50 Hz, less than or equal to about 200 Hz, less than or equal to about 1 kHz, less than or equal to about 100 kbps, and/or less than or equal to about 500 kbps of information related to situational awareness. Situational awareness data can include, for example, GPS data, tilt sensor data, compass information, accelerometer data, MEMs data, other sensor data, or any combination of these. The wireless system can be receiving this information on a nearly continuous basis such that the local devices of the personal equipment system can process and/or display this information to the user to augment the user's situational awareness.

Example Wireless Maintenance, Diagnostic, and Communication Methods and Modules

A wireless maintenance, diagnostic, and data communication system can include modules configured to perform certain tasks. For example, the system can include an application that is installed on a smartphone that allows the smartphone to pair, or establish a wireless connection, with a personal equipment system. In some implementations, an application can be configured to allow the user to perform diagnostic checks from a computer on an intrapersonal electrical system or local device. Modules can be provided that establish secure communication through encryption methods. Modules can be provided that allow an external system to command and control certain operations of a headgear system or local device. In some implementations, the wireless data communication, maintenance, and diagnostic system is configured to display messages to a user from an external system, for example, a text message from another user's smartphone could be displayed to the user through a visualization system.

Example Methods and Modules for Establishing a Wireless Bridge Between Personal Equipment Systems and External Systems and Devices.

FIG. 17 shows an example method 1700 of establishing a wireless bridge between a personal equipment system and an external system, according to some embodiments. The establishment of a wireless bridge allows external systems and external local devices to utilize the resources of the wired network of local devices on the personal equipment system.

In block 1702, the wireless communication system is put into a mode where it is either accepting or requesting a connection with an external system or external local device. Putting a wireless communication system in a mode where it is accepting connections can mean that the system is listening to transmitted messages from external systems and devices. Putting a wireless communication system in a mode where it is requesting connections can mean that the system is broadcasting messages. The messages may be received by external systems or devices.

If the wireless system is in a mode where it is accepting connections, the system can be configured to become discoverable in block 1704. Becoming discoverable can mean that the system broadcasts a signal with information pertinent to establishing a connection. Such information can include, for example, the device name, the device class, list of services available on the device, features of the device, the clock offset, communication protocol information, or any combination of these.

In block 1706, the wireless communication system can acknowledge an incoming connection request from an external device. Acknowledging the request can include, for example, forming a request for an authorization code, sending a signal to the requesting device acknowledging the request, putting the system into another state (e.g., becoming non-discoverable), or any combination of these. The request acknowledgement can initiate a one-to-one connection between the wireless communication system and an external system, such that the wireless system no longer broadcasts information but instead directs communication to the target system.

If the wireless system is in a mode where it is requesting connections, the system can be configured to discover external systems or devices in block 1708. In block 1708 the wireless system listens for devices that are discoverable. This can include, for example, receiving information from systems that are discoverable and creating a list of those devices based on the broadcasted information.

In block 1710 the wireless system of the personal equipment system requests a connection with an external system. Requesting a connection can include selecting an external system from the list created during the discovery step in block 1708. The selection of the external system can be made automatically by the wireless communication system or can be selected by a user. One or more systems can be selected by the wireless communication system or a user, and requests for connection can be sent to each system selected. Requesting a connection can include sending a passkey or PIN code such that the recipient system can verify or authorize the connection.

In block 1712, the wireless communication system can authorize a connection with the external system. Authorizing a connection can include, for example, validating a passkey or PIN code exchanged with the external system, checking the external system's information against known systems, checking a link key against a list of stored keys, accepting the connection without any further verification, or any combination of these. Authorization can be granted for a finite duration after which the process establishing a wireless bridge must be repeated, or the authorization can be granted indefinitely.

In block 1714, the wireless communication system can send a link key to the authorized system. The link key can be used to encrypt the communication between the systems. The link key can be stored on the authorized device such that future requests to pair may be granted without requesting a passkey or PIN code. The link key can be generated using the passkey or PIN code and shared with the authorized device to create a secure communication between them. The encryption method can be any suitable method including, for example, proprietary encryption protocols, public key encryption, Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA or WPA2), or other suitable encryption protocol.

In some embodiments, establishing a wireless bridge, or pairing, creates a one-to-one relationship between two systems wherein the systems communicate with one another and accept no other wireless communication from other systems. In some embodiments, establishing a wireless bridge creates a network of systems that may all communicate with one another. For example, in a situation where multiple intrapersonal electrical systems and local devices are in relatively close proximity, each system may communicate with the other systems within the network without having to establish an exclusive connection between systems. In some embodiments, a wireless communication system pairs or establishes a wireless bridge with many systems simultaneously. In some embodiments, a wireless communication system is paired with an external system that is simultaneously connected with other external systems, intrapersonal electrical systems, and/or local devices. For example, a laptop or smartphone can be connected to multiple intrapersonal electrical systems and local devices simultaneously and retrieve or send information to all of them without having to establish a unique and exclusive connection with each.

Modules can be configured to establish a wireless bridge between the wireless communication system and one or more external systems or devices. For example, a module can be configured to put a system into a discoverable mode based on input from a user or upon the satisfaction of predetermined criteria. Criteria can include, for example, time of day, location, proximity to other wireless systems, proximity to an external system, a command from an external system, or any combination of these. A module can be configured to present to a user a list of devices with which a system may be connected. The module can further be configured to allow the user to select one or more devices from the list and consequently request a connection with the selected devices. A module can be configured to present to the user a prompt to enter in a passkey or PIN code for establishing a connection with a system. A module can be configured to prompt a user to accept or deny a connection request from an external system.

Example Maintenance and Diagnostic Methods and Modules

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of an example maintenance and diagnostic method 1800 according to some embodiments. In block 1802, the wireless communication system establishes a connection with one or more external systems, as discussed herein with reference to FIG. 17. Upon establishing a wireless bridge with one or more external systems, the wireless system can send status information in block 1804 to the paired external systems. Examples of status information can include information associated with a personal equipment system, such as temperature data, system operational time, system name, hardware information, software and operating system version information, time of last connection to an external system, or any combination of these.

After this initial connection and data exchange, the wireless system waits to receive a command in block 1806. In some implementations, the system waits indefinitely until a request to terminate the connection is received. In some implementations, the system waits a predetermined amount of time before terminating the connection. In some embodiments, the request to terminate the connection must come from the external system, as in block 1808. In some embodiments, the system may disconnect without an explicit request to terminate.

If the wireless system receives a command from at least one of the external systems in block 1806, the system then processes that command. Example commands are listed in blocks 1810, 1814, and 1818, but these do not represent an exhaustive list. The system can be configured to respond to any number of commands as warranted by the particular system and how that system is used.

In block 1810 the system receives a request to transmit stored data to the external system. The system can transmit the requested information in block 1812 which may include, for example, stored images, location information, waypoints on a map, maps, temperature information, sensor information, battery status, system operational time, wireless signal strength, or any combination of these. In some embodiments, the system can receive a request to store information that is sent by the external system.

In block 1814 the system receives a command to initiate a system update or upgrade. The wireless system then initiates the requested procedure in block 1816, which may include downloading updates for the operating system, applications, drivers, or the like and installing those updates. In some implementations, the system update or upgrade command includes adding, removing, or modifying maintenance and diagnostic routines. The updated information may be sent by the external system or it may be retrieved from some other external system, local device, and/or transferred via cables, smart cards, thumb drives, etc. Similarly, a request to upgrade the system may require putting the system into a specialized maintenance mode such that the operating system can be upgraded. The upgrade and update procedure can be initiated by an appropriate external system which can include, for example, a computer, laptop, telephone, smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device. Any software that an intrapersonal communication system, headgear system, local device, and/or personal equipment system may use can be configured to be updated or upgraded through this procedure. For example, image compression algorithms, data transmission protocols, programs designed to display information to a user, and/or programs designed to process data from a visualization system can be updated or upgraded through this system.

In block 1818 the system receives a command to perform a diagnostic procedure. The system can then initiate the requested procedure in block 1820 which may include, for example, testing whether particular components failed within the headgear system or local devices, testing the intrapersonal data communication link, checking for viruses or bugs in software or firmware, performing self-tests, or any combination of these. The diagnostic procedure in block 1820 can include reporting the results of the procedure to the requesting external system. Based on the results of the procedure, further diagnostics can be requested or run from the external system.

The external system that pairs with the wireless system can include modules configured to allow a user to initiate commands and inspect data returned from the wireless system. For example, a smartphone can include an application that allows the user to choose one or more personal equipment systems with which to connect. The application can also be configured to allow the user to select from a menu of available commands or requests to send to the one or more paired systems. The application can be configured to display any data returned from the one or more paired systems allowing the user to analyze the information. The application can be configured to direct specific commands to one or more paired systems, without sending the command to all paired systems. The application can be configured to request the connection be terminated to any paired system. In some embodiments, the application runs on a computer, a laptop, and/or a smartphone.

As an example, a plurality of headgear systems according to the embodiments described herein in relation to FIGS. 1B-1D can be equipped with wireless communication systems. These systems can be put into discoverable mode so that a properly configured laptop may pair with them. The laptop, after successfully pairing with the systems, may send a command to update a program on the systems through a designated module or application. The laptop can send the updated software to the systems through the wireless communication systems and the paired headgear systems can initiate an update procedure based on the command from the laptop. Each system can then proceed to use the updated software sent by the laptop to update the designated program. The laptop can then wait for a confirmation signal from the systems indicating a successful update. Once received, the laptop can then request to terminate the connection with the systems or proceed to send further commands. To turn off the wireless communication of the headgear systems after the maintenance has been performed, a user may manually turn it off, the systems can wait a designated amount of time before turning off, or they may turn off when a signal is received from the laptop to which they are paired.

Example Command and Control Methods and Modules

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a method 1900 for sending command and control data from an external system to a personal equipment system. The method 1900 shares aspects with the method 1800 described herein in relation to the block diagram in FIG. 18. In particular, blocks 1802, 1804, 1806, 1808, and 1822 are set forth and described herein in relation to FIG. 18.

In block 1910 the wireless system receives a command to display information to the user. The information to be displayed can be sent as part of the initial display command from the external system or it can be sent during block 1912 where the system receives and displays the information. The information can be displayed through the visualization system of the personal equipment system, e.g. the visualization system 110 of the headgear system 100 in FIGS. 1A-1D. The information can include, for example, text, location information, target information, sender identification, instructions, images, video, or any combination of these. The display of the information can include displaying it in a field of view of the user in an eyepiece of the visualization system without substantially obscuring a current scene being displayed or it can partially or completely obscure the current scene.

In block 1914 the system can receive a command to update location information. In block 1916 the system can either send its current location or it can receive the location of the external system. The location of a system can be derived, for example, from communication with GPS satellites, from communication with RF antennas, from communication with long-range networking radios, or relative locations based on triangulation or trilateration using multiple wireless communication systems and/or other external systems. The location information can be displayed on a map to the user through the visualization system.

In block 1918 the system can receive a command to relay information to the external system. The information that can be relayed can include, for example, status information, location information, identification, temperature, sensor data, video, images, maps, or any combination of these. The information to be transmitted in block 1920 can include information that is specifically requested from a user. For example, the external system can request a user to send an image from the visualization system. The user can then initiate a procedure that takes an image and sends it to the external system. As another example, the external system can request a user to respond to an inquiry. The user can then compose a response to the inquiry using the headgear system, a coupled local device, or an external system.

Example Communication between Personal Equipment Systems and External Systems

As an example, two or more hunters can have personal equipment systems each comprising a headgear system with a visualization system and a wireless communication system. Each hunter's headgear system can be paired with the other headgear systems through the included wireless communication systems. Additionally, each hunter can have a smartphone or similar electronic device that is paired to their own headgear system through the wireless communication system.

Modules can be included on the smartphones and headgear systems allowing the hunters to communicate with one another in various ways. For example, a hunter may use a module to compose a message on their smartphone indicating, for example, that suitable prey has been sited. The module on the smartphone can transmit this message to the hunter's wireless communication system included with his or her headgear system. The receiving headgear system can include a module that transmits the received message to each of the other hunters' headgear systems via their wireless communication systems. In some embodiments, the smartphone is paired with the other hunters' wireless communication systems in their personal equipment systems and the module sends the message directly to them without first sending it to the hunter's own system.

A module can be configured to display the message on the visualization systems of the several hunters. Furthermore, the original hunter can utilize a module to send the location of the prey as well as the hunter's own location to the other hunters. Modules can also transmit the locations of the other hunters as well. As a result, modules on the headgear and visualization systems can be configured to display to each hunter a map indicating their current location, the location of the other hunters in the party, and the location of the prey. This may enable the hunters to efficiently track the prey and avoid potentially dangerous situations such as firing a weapon at the target while another hunter is in the line of fire.

Example Embodiments

The following is a numbered list of example embodiments that are within the scope of this disclosure. The example embodiments that are listed should in no way be interpreted as limiting the scope of the embodiments. Various features of the example embodiments that are listed can be removed, added, or combined to form additional embodiments, which are part of this disclosure:

1. A personal equipment system configured to be worn by a user, the system comprising:

-   -   a wireless communication system having an antenna configured to         send and receive electromagnetic signals, a transceiver         electrically coupled to the antenna, and one or more processors         electrically coupled to the transceiver and configured to encode         information received by the antenna for wired delivery to one or         more local devices coupled to the personal equipment system;     -   a maintenance and diagnostic module coupled to the wireless         communication system and configured to send and receive         information to one or more local devices coupled to the personal         equipment system;     -   a first local device comprising a visualization system         electrically coupled to the wireless communication system, the         visualization system having a user interface element and a         visualization optical data interface, wherein the user interface         element is configured to change a state of the wireless         communication system when activated, and wherein the         visualization optical data interface comprises a visualization         optical transceiver configured to send and receive optical         digital signals;     -   a visualization non-contact optical connector configured to         couple optical digital signals between the visualization optical         data interface and a visualization end of an optical digital         signal link;     -   a second local device comprising a data processing system having         a data processing optical data interface, wherein the data         processing optical data interface comprises a data processing         optical transceiver configured to send and receive optical         digital signals; and     -   a data processing non-contact optical connector configured to         couple optical digital signals between the data processing         optical data interface and a data processing end of the optical         digital signal link,     -   wherein the wireless communication system is configured to         establish a wireless communication connection with an external         system,     -   wherein the maintenance and diagnostic module performs defined         maintenance or diagnostic routines based on commands received         from the external system.

2. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the personal equipment system is contained within a headgear system.

3. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the maintenance and diagnostic module is configured to update software on at least one of the visualization system, the data processing system, and the wireless communication system.

4. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the user interface element is configured to turn the wireless communication system on when the user interface element is put in a first state.

5. The personal equipment system of embodiment 4, wherein the user interface element is further configured to turn the wireless communication system off when the user interface element is put in a second state.

6. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the maintenance and diagnostic module is configured to modify the defined maintenance or diagnostic routines based on information received from the external system.

7. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the wireless communication system is configured to communicate according to BLUETOOTH™ Specification Version 3.0+HS adopted in 2009.

8. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the wireless communication system is configured to decrypt encrypted information received from the external system.

9. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the maintenance and diagnostic module is configured to initiate an update of software on the visualization system.

10. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the maintenance and diagnostic module is configured to initiate an update of software on the data processing system.

11. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, wherein the external system comprises at least one of a computer, a smartphone, a laptop, a tablet, a phone, and a radio that is not electrically coupled to the personal equipment system but that is located less than or equal to about 10 m from the personal equipment system.

12. The personal equipment system of embodiment 1, further comprising a third local device comprising a radio coupled to the optical digital signal link.

13. A method of wirelessly maintaining and diagnosing a local device coupled to a personal equipment system, the method comprising:

-   -   establishing a wireless connection between the personal         equipment system and an external system, the personal equipment         system comprising a wireless communication system, a         visualization system electrically coupled to the wireless         communication system, an optical intrapersonal communication         system optically coupled to the visualization system, and a data         processing system optically coupled to the optical intrapersonal         communication system;     -   communicating status information to the external system through         the wireless communication system;     -   receiving a maintenance or diagnostic command from the external         system through the wireless communication system;     -   performing a defined maintenance or diagnostic procedure based         on the maintenance or diagnostic command from the external         system; and     -   terminating the wireless connection between the personal         equipment system and the external system.

14. The method of embodiment 13, wherein the wireless communication system is configured to communicate according to BLUETOOTH™ Specification Version 3.0+HS adopted in 2009.

15. The method of embodiment 13, further comprising receiving a termination request from the external system.

16. The method of embodiment 13, wherein the personal equipment system further comprises a user interface configured to command the personal equipment system to alter the wireless connection to the external system.

17. The method of embodiment 16, wherein establishing a connection comprises:

-   -   responding to a user interface command;     -   becoming discoverable to the external system in response to the         user interface command;     -   acknowledging a connection request from the external system; and     -   authorizing a connection with the external system.

18. The method of embodiment 16, wherein terminating the wireless connection between the personal equipment system and the external system comprises:

-   -   responding to a user interface command; and     -   turning the wireless communication system off in response to the         user interface command.

19. The method of embodiment 13, wherein a maintenance or diagnostic procedure comprises updating software in the personal equipment system.

20. The method of embodiment 13, wherein a maintenance or diagnostic procedure comprises retrieving information from the personal equipment system and transmitting the retrieved information to the external system.

21. The method of embodiment 13, wherein a maintenance or diagnostic procedure comprises testing at least one of the visualization system, the data processing system, and the wireless communication system.

22. The method of embodiment 13, wherein a maintenance or diagnostic procedure comprises updating a system software on at least one of the visualization system, the data processing system, and the wireless communication system.

23. A personal equipment system comprising:

-   -   a wireless communication system having an antenna configured to         send and receive electromagnetic signals, a transceiver         electrically coupled to the antenna, and one or more processors         electrically coupled to the transceiver and to a cabled         intrapersonal network, the one or more processors configured to         encode information received by the antenna for delivery to one         or more local devices coupled to the cabled intrapersonal         network;     -   a first local device electrically coupled to the wireless         communication system, the first local device having an first         interface to the cabled intrapersonal network, wherein the first         interface comprises a first transceiver configured to send and         receive digital signals;     -   a first connector configured to couple digital signals between         the first interface and the cabled intrapersonal network;     -   a second local device having a second interface to the cabled         intrapersonal network, wherein the second interface comprises a         second transceiver configured to send and receive digital         signals;     -   a second connector configured to couple digital signals between         the second interface and the cabled intrapersonal network; and     -   a user interface element electrically coupled to the wireless         communication system,     -   wherein the user interface element is configured to change a         state of the wireless communication system when activated,     -   wherein the wireless communication system is configured to         create a wireless bridge between an external system and the         personal equipment system.

24. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the user interface element is disposed on a surface of the first local device such that it is accessible to a user using the personal equipment system.

25. The personal equipment system of embodiment 24, wherein the user interface element is a button.

26. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the first local device is a visualization system.

27. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the second local device is a data processing system.

28. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the wireless communication system turns off in response to the user interface element.

29. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the wireless communication system turns on in response to the user interface element.

30. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, further comprising a power source electrically coupled to the wireless communication system, wherein the wireless communication system consumes less than or equal to about 500 mW of power from the power source.

31. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the wireless communication system is configured to create the wireless bridge between the external system and the personal equipment system only when the external system is less than or equal to about 5 m from the personal equipment system.

32. The personal equipment system of embodiment 31, wherein the external system comprises one of a computer, phone, radio, laptop, or smartphone.

33. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the external system communicates sensor data associated with the external system to the personal equipment system through the wireless bridge.

34. The personal equipment system of embodiment 33, wherein sensor data is at least one of an accelerometer data, MEMs data, image sensor data, and GPS data.

35. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the cabled intrapersonal network comprises an optical digital signal link.

36. The personal equipment system of embodiment 23, wherein the wireless bridge is configured to provide the external system wireless access to functionality contained within the first local device, the second local device, or both.

37. A short-range, low-power wireless communication system for linking a personal equipment system and an external system, the personal equipment system comprising a visualization system coupled to the wireless communication system and a cabled intrapersonal communication network, and a data processing system coupled to the cabled intrapersonal communication network, the wireless communication system comprising:

-   -   an antenna configured to send and receive electromagnetic         signals from the external system;     -   a transceiver electrically coupled to the antenna and configured         to process signals to be sent to the external system and         received from the external system;     -   one or more processors electrically coupled to the transceiver         configured to encode signals for transmission to the external         system and to decode signals received from the external system;     -   an interface module electrically coupled to the one or more         processors and the personal equipment system, wherein the         interface module is configured to transmit the signals from the         personal equipment system to the one or more processors for         encoding and transmit signals from the one or more processors         over the cabled intrapersonal communication network;     -   a controller electrically coupled to at least one of the         interface module, the one or more processors, and the         transceiver, wherein the controller is configured to control the         operation of the wireless communication system; and     -   a user interface module electrically coupled to the controller         and configured to respond to actions by a user,     -   wherein the wireless communication system creates a wireless         bridge between the personal equipment system and the external         system,     -   wherein the visualization system is configured to respond to         commands received from the external system through the wireless         communication system.

38. The wireless communication system of embodiment 37, wherein the wireless communication system is configured to communicate with an external system only when the external system is located less than or equal to about 5 m from the wireless communication system.

39. The wireless communication system of embodiment 37, wherein the wireless communication system is configured to communicate with an external system consuming less than or equal to about 500 mW of power.

40. The wireless communication system of embodiment 37, wherein the wireless communication system is configured to communicate wireless with an external system that is worn on a body of a user or carried by a user.

41. A personal equipment system comprising:

-   -   a long-range radio electrically coupled to the personal         equipment system and configured to communicate voice and data         over distances greater than 100 m;     -   a low-power, short-range wireless communication system         electrically coupled to the personal equipment system; and     -   a higher-power, short-range ultra wideband wireless system         electrically coupled to the personal equipment system,     -   wherein the personal equipment system receives information         wirelessly from an external system through the higher-power,         short-range ultra wideband wireless system for information         transmitted at a rate greater than or equal to about 500 kbps         and through the low-power, short-range wireless communication         system for information transmitted at a rate less than 500 kbps.

42. The personal equipment system of embodiment 41, wherein the low-power, short-range wireless communication system consumes than or equal to about 500 mW of power.

43. The personal equipment system of embodiment 41, wherein the low-power, short-range wireless communication system is configured to communicate with the external system only when the external system is located less than or equal to about 5 m from the personal equipment system.

44. The personal equipment system of embodiment 41, wherein the low-power, short-range wireless communication system receives sensor data from the external system.

45. A method for displaying a reticle or symbology in a visualization system, the method comprising:

-   -   receiving information from a sighting system, the information         comprising image data corresponding to a field of view of a site         associated with the sighting system and sensor data         corresponding to an orientation of the sighting system;     -   receiving information from the visualization system, the         information comprising image data corresponding to a field of         view of the visualization system;     -   sending the sighting system information and the visualization         system information to a data processing system;     -   processing the sighting system information and the visualization         system information to create image data with a reticle or         symbology corresponding to the pointing direction of the         sighting system relative to the field of view of the         visualization system; and     -   displaying the image data with the reticle or symbology over the         visualization system.

46. A method for wirelessly commanding and controlling a personal equipment system from an external system, the method comprising:

-   -   establishing a wireless connection between the personal         equipment system and an external system, the personal equipment         system comprising a wireless communication system, a         visualization system electrically coupled to the wireless         communication system, an optical intrapersonal communication         system optically coupled to the visualization system, and a data         processing system optically coupled to the optical intrapersonal         communication system;     -   communicating status information to the external system through         the wireless communication system;     -   receiving a command from the external system through the         wireless communication system;     -   performing a defined procedure based on the command received         from the external system; and     -   terminating the wireless connection between the personal         equipment system and the external system.

47. The method of embodiment 46, wherein establishing a connection comprises:

-   -   receiving a signal from the user interface;     -   becoming discoverable to the external system in response to the         signal from the user interface;     -   acknowledging a connection request from the external system; and     -   authorizing a connection.

48. The method of embodiment 46, wherein disconnecting the personal equipment system and the external system comprises:

-   -   receiving a signal from the user interface; and     -   turning off the wireless communication system in response to the         signal received from the user interface.

CONCLUSION

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or states. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or states are in any way required for one or more embodiments. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y and at least one of Z each to be present.

In general, the word “module,” as used herein, refers to logic embodied in hardware or firmware, or to a collection of software instructions, possibly having entry and exit points, written in a programming language, such as, for example, Java, C or C++. A software module may be compiled and linked into an executable program, installed in a dynamic link library, or may be written in an interpreted programming language such as, for example, BASIC, Perl, or Python. It will be appreciated that software modules may be callable from other modules or from themselves, and/or may be invoked in response to detected events or interrupts. Software instructions may be embedded in firmware, such as an EPROM. It will be further appreciated that hardware modules may be comprised of connected logic units, such as gates and flip-flops, and/or may be comprised of programmable units, such as programmable gate arrays or processors. The modules described herein are preferably implemented as software modules, but may be represented in hardware or firmware. Generally, the modules described herein refer to logical modules that may be combined with other modules or divided into sub-modules despite their physical organization or storage.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, data structures, and processes described herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, and states have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. However, while the various modules are illustrated separately, they may share some or all of the same underlying logic or code. Certain of the logical blocks, modules, and processes described herein may instead be implemented monolithically.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, data structures, and processes described herein may be implemented or performed by a machine, such as a computer, a processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A processor may be a microprocessor, a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, combinations of the same, or the like. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices—for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors or processor cores, one or more graphics or stream processors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP, or any other such configuration.

The blocks or states of the processes described herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. For example, each of the processes described above may also be embodied in, and fully automated by, software modules executed by one or more machines such as computers or computer processors. A module may reside in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, memory capable of storing firmware, or any other form of computer-readable storage medium. An exemplary computer-readable storage medium can be coupled to a processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the computer readable storage medium. In the alternative, the computer-readable storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the computer-readable storage medium may reside in an ASIC.

Depending on the embodiment, certain acts, events, or functions of any of the processes or algorithms described herein can be performed in a different sequence, may be added, merged, or left out altogether. Thus, in certain embodiments, not all described acts or events are necessary for the practice of the processes. Moreover, in certain embodiments, acts or events may be performed concurrently, e.g., through multi-threaded processing, interrupt processing, or via multiple processors or processor cores, rather than sequentially.

It should be appreciated that in the description of embodiments herein, various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Moreover, any components, features, or steps illustrated and/or described in a particular embodiment herein can be applied to or used with any other embodiment(s). Thus, it is intended that the scope of the inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular embodiments described herein, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A headgear system having an interference-resistant optical digital signal link configured to transmit optical digital signals between two or more local devices, the headgear system comprising: an exterior shell; a guide path adjacent to the exterior shell, the guide path configured to direct the optical digital signal link between a first optical connector having a non-contact portion and a second optical connector having a non-contact portion; a first signal converter having a first local device electrical data interface and a first optical data interface, wherein the first local device electrical data interface is configured to electrically connect to a first electrical data connector of a first local device, and wherein the first signal converter is configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals; the first optical connector having a non-contact portion configured to couple optical digital signals between the first optical data interface of the first signal converter and a first end of the interference-resistant optical digital signal link across a first gap; a second signal converter having a second local device electrical data interface and a second optical data interface, wherein the second local device electrical data interface is configured to electrically connect to a second electrical data connector of a second local device, and wherein the second signal converter is configured to convert between electrical digital signals and optical digital signals; and the second optical connector having a non-contact portion configured to couple optical digital signals between the second optical data interface of the second signal converter and a second end of the interference-resistant optical digital signal link across a second gap. 